Planthoppers are a fascinating group of phytophagous insects from which much can be learned concerning a wide variety of evolutionary phenomena. For example, planthoppers can be studied to provide insight into the role of acoustic communication in speciation, the influences of sexual selection on morphology, and the selective pressure exerted by endosymbionts such as Wolbachia. Greater understanding of such issues is facilitated by an accurate phylogeny to serve as an evolutionary framework within which such work can be interpreted. Unfortunately, however, no clear consensus currently exists concerning the phylogeny of Fulgoroidea.
We present results of an ongoing phylogenetic investigation of planthoppers in the hemipteran superfamily Fulgoroidea. The current analysis focuses on family level relationships, and includes representatives of 15 of the 20 planthopper families. This analysis is based on DNA nucleotide sequences from three genetic markers (18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, and histone 3), as well as morphological characters. Results are interpreted in light of previously hypothesized relationships among planthopper families.
Species 1: Homoptera Fulgoroidea (planthopper)
Keywords: phylogenetics, Fulgoromorpha
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