Redescription and revised genus placement of Oliarus pinicolus Osborn, 1926, with notes on Antillean Pentastirini (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae)

Solomon V Hendrix ¹, Charles R Bartlett ²

⁰University of Delaware; Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology; 250 Townsend Hall; Newark; DE 19716-2160; USA. solvhent@udel.edu.

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March 13, 2024

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Summary

This study redescribes the planthopper Oliarus pinicolus, transferring it to the genus Nivcentia based on male terminalia. This taxonomic revision clarifies the classification of Cuban planthoppers.

Area Of Science

Entomology
Taxonomy
Insect Systematics

Background

Oliarus pinicolus Osborn, 1926, a poorly documented planthopper species, was originally described from western Cuba, associated with Cuban pine (Pinus cubensis).
The New World cixiid genus Melanoliarus Fennah, 1945, is known for its extensive diversity.

Purpose Of The Study

To redescribe and illustrate Oliarus pinicolus, including its male terminalia, for the first time.
To re-evaluate the taxonomic placement of Oliarus pinicolus within the Cixiidae family.
To provide an updated checklist and taxonomic commentary on Antillean Pentastirini.

Main Methods

Morphological examination and illustration of male terminalia of Oliarus pinicolus.
Comparative analysis with related species within the region.
Designation of a lectotype for Oliarus pinicolus to stabilize its species concept.

Main Results

Oliarus pinicolus is redescribed and illustrated, with detailed analysis of its male terminalia.
The species is transferred to the genus Nivcentia Holzinger, 2004, becoming Nivcentia pinicolus comb. nov.
An amended description of the genus Nivcentia is provided, incorporating characteristics of the newly transferred species.

Conclusions

The taxonomic placement of Nivcentia pinicolus is clarified, enhancing understanding of the genus Nivcentia.
The study contributes to the systematic knowledge of Antillean Pentastirini, with illustrations of Cuban pentastirine species.
This work provides a stable species concept for Nivcentia pinicolus through lectotype designation.

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