Aspects of archipine evolution (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

• Author / Creator

  Dombroskie, Jason

• The economically important tribe Archipini (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) has posed many taxonomic challenges, ranging from species and generic boundaries to their overall phylogeny. In Chapter 2, the species Clepsis anderslaneyii Dombroskie & Brown 2009, is described based upon material from southeastern Arizona, helping to complete our knowledge of the Nearctic archipine fauna. In Chapter 3, I apply an iterative approach utilizing morphological, molecular, and geographical evidence to test the species boundaries of the Pandemis limitata (Robinson) group. None of these character suites alone fully supported the species boundaries; however, in combination they successfully differentiated most specimens and for that reason I maintain the three separate species. Generic boundaries and putative synapomorphies of the genus Pandemis are examined using COI and ITS2 DNA. Definitive conclusions were precluded by weak phylogenetic support and losses of major structures in some taxa. In Chapter 4, a molecular phylogeny of the Archipini is presented, based on phylogenetic analysis of 28S and COI DNA for 134 species in 33 genera. It shows an Australasian origin for the tribe, with subsequent radiations into the rest of the Old World, and later the New World. Through tests for correlated evolution and total correlation, I examine factors that may facilitate the loss of secondary sexual characters (SSCs). SSCs are more frequently lost when host plant range is narrowed and when taxa radiated into the New World, but novel SSCs do not significantly replace existing SSCs. In Chapter 5, the need for accurate higher-level identifications is addressed in a user-friendly, interactive, matrix-based key to the Lepidoptera of Canada. It covers 222 taxon groups, using 73 characters with 266 states including many characters, like measurements and ratios, that are difficult to quantify using a dichotomous key. It works best with the traditionally challenging microlepidoptera and now provides a new gateway to their identification. Overall, this thesis proposes taxonomic changes for many pest and related species, and furthers a deeper understanding of their evolution.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Tortricidae--Classification
  • Tortricidae--Evolution

• Graduation date

  Spring 2011

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Doctor of Philosophy

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R3F031

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.