Neotype designation and generic re-definition of the monotypic genus Dialeurotrachelus Takahashi (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), and first record of its occurrence in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Abstract

Takahashi (1942) described Dialeurotrachelus cambodiensis, the type species of the monotypic whitefly genus, Dialeurotrachelus Takahashi from three syntype specimens collected on an unidentified tree in Cambodia, which were subsequently lost or destroyed. It was rediscovered after eight decades in the Indian territories of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A neotype is designated for D. cambodiensis Takahashi, from specimens collected on Diospyros kurzii Hiern (Ebenaceae) from Andaman Island, India. It is recorded for the first time from the Indian territories, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Pupal morphology is assessed for redefining the generic description with differential diagnoses from related genera, and anomalies involved with structure of the vasiform orifice and associated structures are discussed. Illustrations are provided of the puparia in life, camera lucida drawings, slide mounts, and scanning electron photomicrographs.