Abstract
Abstract Numerical cladistic method was used for analyzing the phylogeny of ladybirds, based upon adult and larval characters. The analysis of adult characters for 21 tribes, representing all subfamilies proposed by various authors, exhibited 18 equally parsimonious cladograms with high level of homoplasy. Five lineages were roughly revealed in the strict consensus tree: Sticholotidinae, Epilachninae, Coccinellinae (including Singhikalini), Coccidulinae (excluding Noviini) and Scymninae+Chilocorinae. The taxonomic interpretation of the adult analysis was similar to the classification proposed by Chazeauet al. (1990). Comparison of a preliminary analysis based on the larval characters for 14 tribes revealed only one component consistently supported in both analyses (Serangiini+Sukunahikonini). Larval analysis showed that Epi‐lachinae is the most primitive and highly derived group of the Coccinellidae. Larval characters might be more satisfactory in revealing the phylogeny.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
