Evaluation of key morphological characters reveals convergent processes in the treehopper Tribe Darnini (Hemiptera: Membracidae)

The tribe Darnini (Hemiptera: Membracidae) is a complex of morphologically diverse taxa which have been poorly studied. The tribe includes 86 species classified in 16 genera. Darnini has been recognized as a monophyletic unit, its monophyly is supported by the following synapomorphy: the presence of cucullate setae in the ventral side of the femora. Here we assess the phylogenetic nature of this structure using integrative approaches. Our analyses provide insights into convergent processes that have been taking place in the evolutionary history of these charismatic treehoppers, it also remarks on the importance of examining many different characters molecular and morphological in order to untangle phylogenetic relationships.