Mitochondrial genomes of Macropsini (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Eurymelinae): Structural features, codon usage...

Area of Science:

• Insect taxonomy
• Mitochondrial genomics
• Evolutionary biology

Background:

• The leafhopper tribe Macropsini (family Cicadellidae) is globally distributed, but its taxonomy and genus-level classification remain debated.
• Understanding the evolutionary history and mitogenome structure of Macropsini is crucial for resolving systematic issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the patterns and evolutionary processes shaping Macropsini mitogenomes.
• To reconstruct phylogenetic relationships and address taxonomic controversies within five genera.
• To contribute valuable data to the subfamily Eurymelinae.

Main Methods:

• Sequencing and characterization of 26 Macropsini species' mitogenomes.
• Phylogenetic reconstruction using mitochondrial gene data.
• Analysis of nucleotide composition, codon usage, and evolutionary pressures.

Main Results:

• Significant A and T nucleotide skew and prevalence of T/A-ending codons observed in mitochondrial genes.
• Mutation and selective pressures identified as key factors influencing codon usage patterns.
• Phylogenetic analysis supported the monophyly of *Pedionis* and *Macropsis*, but revealed *Oncopsis* as paraphyletic concerning *Pediopsoides*.

Conclusions:

• The study provides novel data on Macropsini mitogenomes, enhancing understanding of their evolution.
• Results offer a foundation for future research on codon usage, adaptive evolution, and phylogeny within Eurymelinae.
• Taxonomic clarity is advanced, particularly regarding the relationships between *Oncopsis*, *Pediopsoides*, *Pedionis*, and *Macropsis*.