A review of the eriochiton spinosus (maskell) species-complex (Eriococcidae: Coccoidea), including a phylogenetic analysis of its relationships

This paper revises a species-complex in the eriococcid genus Eriochiton. In addition to E. spinosus (Maskell), about whose status there is still some uncertainty, the complex contains E. armatus Brittin and five new species, E. brittini, E. deboerae, E. dracophylli, E. dugdalei and E. pseudohispidus. Descriptions, illustrations and diagnostic keys are provided for most scale-like stages of-all seven species. The prepupa, pupa and adult male of Eriochiton are described for the first time; the structure of the latter confirms the placement of Eriochiton in the Eriococcidae. A phylogenetic study of the Eriochitonini concludes that it is monophyletic and suggests some evolutionary trends within the tribe. Neoeriochiton clareae is considered the most primitive known taxon in the Eriochitonini and its placement in a separate genus is discussed. Also discussed are the importance of the immature stages in scale insect taxonomy and the narrow host range of most species in this tribe.