Phylogeny and classification of Lepidodexia Brauer & Bergenstamm (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)

Abstract

Lepidodexia Brauer and Bergenstamm is one of the most speciose genera of flesh flies found in the Western Hemisphere. With approximately 200 species and 33 subgenera, Lepidodexia generic level diagnosis primarily relies on male terminalia features. However, the monophyly of Lepidodexia has been questioned, and for some taxa, the male terminalia are poorly known, leading to uncertainty about the genus delimitation and internal relationships. To address these issues, we performed the first comprehensive phylogeny of Lepidodexia, covering 85 % of its subgenera. Our results enabled us to establish a clear diagnosis for Lepidodexia and to identify 14 groups of subgenera based on key morphological features. The taxonomic status of the subgenera Archimimus, Halliosca, Xylocamptops and the species Lepidodexia angustifrons is addressed. Furthermore, our study provides a foundation for future taxonomic and evolutionary research on this diverse and ecologically important genus of flesh flies.