Mitrapsylla rupestris sp. nov., a psyllid (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) associated with Poiretia bahiana (Fabaceae) endemic to the Espinhaco mountain range (Brazil, Bahia)

Mitrapsylla rupestris sp. nov., associated with Poiretia bahiana C. Mueller (Fabaceae, Faboideae, Dalbergieae), is described, diagnosed and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to M. aeschynomenis, M. aurantia, M. cubana and M. didyma from which it differs in details of the terminalia and the host plant. Poiretia constitutes a previously unknown psyllid host. As its host, Mitrapsylla rupestris sp. nov. is probably endemic to rock habitats of the Espinhaco Range in eastern Brazil. These rock habitats display a high species diversity but are seriously threatened by human activities. More research on these habitats is urgently needed to design efficient conservation strategies.

Automated summary

The study describes a new psyllid species, Mitrapsylla rupestris, which is believed to be endemic to rock habitats in the Espinhaco Range of eastern Brazil. These habitats are facing serious threats from human activities, highlighting the need for further research to develop effective conservation strategies.