Comprehensive phylogenetics, systematics, and evolution of neoteny of Lampyridae (Insecta: Coleoptera)

Abstract

A comprehensive phylogenetic study of Lampyridae covering nearly 80% of documented genera was conducted. A total of 410 male characters explored from 220 species of ten families were selected and coded. The outgroup relationships were largely congruent with previous morphological phylogenies and considerably different from recent molecular studies. A relationship of (Artematopodidae + (Brachypsectridae + (Drilidae + (Omalisidae + ((Lycidae + Omethidae) + (((Phengodidae-Telegeusidae) + Rhagophthalmidae) + Lampyridae))))))) was revealed. The definition of Lampyridae sensu Crowson was supported. Eight monophyletic subfamilies; Pterotinae, Cyphonocerinae Luciolinae, Photurinae, Cheguevarinae [replacement name for Megalophthalminae], Amydetinae, Psilocladinae, and Lampyrinae; were recognized. A taxonomic solution for the paraphyletic Ototretinae-Ototretadrilinae complex was discussed. McDermott's tribal classification was not supported and should be abandoned. Paedomorphosis in Elateroidea was investigated, with emphasis on Lampyridae. Its differentiation, taxonomic distribution, ontogenetic origin, evolution, and other heterochronic questions were thoroughly evaluated.