Taxonomy and evolutionary implications of a new fossil stonefly family (Insecta, Plecoptera) from Middle Cretaceous Kachin amber of northern Myanmar

Abstract

Plecoptera, commonly known as stoneflies, represent an ancient order of aquatic insects with significant ecological importance in freshwater ecosystems. This study describes a new genus and species of stonefly, Crossoperla teslenkoae n. gen. n. sp., based on a female adult preserved in Middle Cretaceous Kachin amber. Morphological examination reveals the taxonomic placement of C. teslenkoae within the infraorder Systellognatha of the suborder Arctoperlaria. Distinctive wing venation patterns and genitalic structures differentiate C. teslenkoae from extant and extinct stonefly families. A new extinct fossil family, Crossoperlidae n. fam. is established for the new stonefly. The findings contribute to the understanding of stonefly evolution, palaeodiversity, and ecological adaptations.