Combination of morphological characters and DNA-barcoding confirms Problepsis cinerea (Butler, 1886) (Geometridae: Sterrhinae: Scopulini) as a new genus and species for the fauna of Iran

Abstract

Problepsis cinerea is reported as a new genus and species for the fauna of Iran. The species is recorded based on two females, collected in South Iran. Identification was confirmed by morphological characters and barcoding data. Information on the morphology and diagnostic characters are given, in comparison with the similar species. Remarks on the habitat and biology are added. Distribution pattern of both P. ocellata and P. cinerea in the Middle East is mapped. Details of the scent scales (located on the male hind tibia) are studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and illustrated.