Monophyly and limits of the tribe Elachipterini (Diptera: Chloropidae)

The monophyly and limits of the chloropid tribe Elachipterini were investigated using an exemplar approach and morphological characters of adult specimens. Questions concerning the limits of the tribe have been raised because of changes in the membership of the tribe in recent years and some generic-level characters which are shared, in various combinations, with other chloropid genera. Currently, Elachipterini is comprised of ten genera with over 125 described species. Based on preliminary analyses, the monophyly of Elachipterini is supported by multiple characters. However, resolution within the tribe is less clear because of widespread homoplasy. Elachiptera and Disciphus are apparently paraphyletic because of the current recognition of some small autapomorphic genera (Myrmecosepsis, Sepsidoscinis, Cyrtomomyia, Goniaspis) and some undescribed species with intermediate combinations of character states. In addition, all species of the large genus Melanochaeta that have been analysed to date, appear to be basal to the rest of the tribe, but this genus is also paraphyletic. Therefore, some genera may have to be redefined and their generic limits re-assessed. Additional exemplar species, especially of large genera, will be required to resolve the monophyly of the larger genera, and the status of some small autapomorphic genera.