Phylogeny of the lacebugs (Insecta: Heteroptera: Tingidae) using morphological and molecular data

A phylogeny of the Tingidae is provided on the basis of parsimony analysis with pre‐alignment as well as with direct optimization of 2018 bp from five loci (COI, Leu‐tRNA, COII, 16S and 28S) and a set of 30 morphological characters. The results obtained with either direct optimization or pre‐alignment methods of parsimony clearly show that Cantacaderinae are sister group to (Phatnominae + Tinginae). Several apomorphies, retrieved in different studies, characterize Cantacaderinae, Phatnominae and Tinginae, but only one characterizes the grouping of Phatnominae + Tinginae. In addition, no clear tribal division as currently used was highlighted within the Tinginae. The results are discussed in the light of earlier morphologically based hypotheses.