Systematics and biogeography of Iassine leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Iassinae) in Madagascar

The origins of Madagascar biotic communities have long intrigued biogeographers. Several studies have suggested complex patterns of biogeographic histories for various Malagasy taxa. In general, invertebrate studies have reported Malagasy taxal affinities with the African continent. Owing to their Mesozoic origin, moderate dispersal abilities, and spectacular radiation in both New and Old World tropics, leafhoppers are excellent models for biogeographic and evolutionary questions related to the origins of the Malagasy fauna. In this study, we selected iassinae, one of the leafhopper subfamilies distributed worldwide. In Madagascar, iassinae is represented by one endemic genus, Platyjassus. A phylogenetic analysis based on 28S ribosomal gene and Histone (H3) was performed to test the monophyly of the genus and to examine its relationships with iassine genera in other continents.Our phylogenetic analysis suggests the monophyly of this genus and its grouping within a New World and South East Asian Iassine lineage.