More hidden diversity in a cryptic species complex: a new subspecies of Leptidea sinapis (Lepidoptera, Pieridae) from Northern Iran

A new subspecies of Leptidea sinapis from Northern Iran, discovered by means of DNA barcoding, is described as Leptidea sinapis tabarestana ssp. nov. The new subspecies is allopatric with respect to other populations of L. sinapis and is genetically distinct, appearing as a well-supported sister clade to all other populations in COI-based phylogenetic reconstructions. Details on karyotype, genitalia, ecology and behaviour for the new subspecies are given and a biogeographical speciation scenario is proposed.

Automated summary

A new subspecies of Leptidea sinapis, named Leptidea sinapis tabarestana ssp. nov., was discovered in Northern Iran using DNA barcoding. This subspecies is geographically isolated from other L. sinapis populations and shows genetic distinctiveness, being a well-supported sister clade to all other populations in COI-based phylogenetic reconstructions. The study provides detailed information on karyotype, genitalia, ecology, and behavior, and proposes a biogeographical speciation scenario.