New Insights into the Systematics of the Genus Polyura Billberg, 1820 (Nymphalidae, Charaxinae) with an Emphasis on the P. athamas Group

Toussaint, Emmanuel F. A.; Morinière, Jérôme; Lam, Athena and Balke, Michael (2016): New Insights into the Systematics of the Genus Polyura Billberg, 1820 (Nymphalidae, Charaxinae) with an Emphasis on the P. athamas Group. In: Journal of the Lepidopterists Society, Vol. 70, No. 2: pp. 145-152

Abstract

The genus Polyura comprises 32 species across the Oriental Region and the Indo-Australian archipelago. Its taxonomy and systematics have recently been studied using a comprehensive molecular phylogeny. Yet, certain elements of its fauna were not available for in depth study. Here, we provide a denser taxon sampling and reconstruct a new phylogenetic hypothesis for the P. athamas group, a morphologically cryptic complex. The known geographic range of the genus is extended to Eastern Pakistan where 'two species fly in sympatry. Endemics from Tawi Tawi archipelago off the northern tip of Borneo have more affinities with the fauna of Sunda Islands rather than with the Philippines. Our results also suggest three taxonomic changes;the recognition of a new species and the transfer of two subspecies to a different species.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Research Centers: GeoBio-Center
• Subjects: 500 Science > 500 Science
• ISSN: 0024-0966
• Language: English