A contribution to the understanding of European Corynoneurini, with the description of three species new to science

Abstract

Northern European Corynoneura species with the combination of comparatively short extension of the hind tibia apex and a thick transverse stern-apodeme are morphologically similar to species in Thienemanniella. Moreover, the generic placement of Corynoneurella paludosa Brundin has been debated. We present results from morphological and molecular analyses that clarify the taxonomy of C. paludosa. Consequently, we regard Corynoneurella as a junior synonym of Corynoneura, move Corynoneurella paludosa to Corynoneura and return Corynoneurella afra (Lehmann) to Thienemanniella. Our observations also conclude that Corynoneurella paludosa sensu Langton is morphologically different from C. paludosa (Brundin) and is best placed in Thienemanniella as Thienemanniella langtoni sp. n. Corynoneura ferringtoni sp. n. and Corynoneura minimagna sp. n. are described and diagnosed based on adult male morphology and DNA barcodes. We redescribe Corynoneura minuscula Brundin, discuss Corynoneura magna Brundin, and suggest a solution for the identity of Corynoneura celeripes Winnertz. Finally, we provide an identification key to adult males of Holarctic Corynoneura species with a short hind tibial extension.