Review of the concolor group, genus Odmalea Bergroth (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) using an integrative approach through morphometric analysis

Abstract

Integrative taxonomy proposes the use of different approaches to complement the classic species description, which traditionally uses qualitative morphological characters. Geometric morphometry assesses shapes through the mathematical relationship between landmarks, which are positioned along the structure. The morphology of a species can vary within and between populations, and the use of geometric morphometry allows quantifying the morphological variation. It is important to review taxa and phylogenetic studies in order to have a better knowledge of biodiversity and the processes that influenced its evolution. The genus Odmalea Bergroth, a group of insect bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) from the Neotropical region belonging to the Procleticini tribe. The last revision of this taxon was carried out in the 70's, which more recently was included in a phylogenetic analysis of the tribe. The results indicated that the genus is a paraphyletic group, that is, its species do not share an exclusive ancestor. The project proposes a review of the group of species, species Odmalea, based on integrative taxonomy. The data used for the review will include quantitative data to test the limits of recognized species and the recognition of possible new species. This is the first study that uses morphometry tools to quantify the size and shape of the main structures used in the group's taxonomy, including male and female genitalia. The applications of this work include the establishment of new approaches for the study of this important group of insects, which include species of economic importance.