Insects, Vol. 16, Pages 747: A Non-Destructive Method, Micro-CT, Supports the Identification of Three New Casmara Species from Sumatra and Taiwan (Lepidoptera: Ashinagidae)

Insects doi: 10.3390/insects16080747

Authors:
In-Won Jeong
Sora Kim
John B. Heppner

Insects exhibit diverse ecological characteristics, but species identification is challenging due to high morphological similarity. Traditional methods require genitalia dissection, which damages specimens and flattens three-dimensional structures, potentially losing key morphological details. In this study, we evaluate the utility of Micro-CT (Computed Tomography) as a non-destructive alternative for species identification by comparing genitalia structures obtained through Micro-CT with those obtained through traditional dissection. Micro-CT enabled three-dimensional reconstructions of male genitalia and aedeagus, providing detailed views from multiple angles without physical damage. The aedeagus was also virtually separated in a digital environment, further enhancing morphological analysis. Using this approach, we identified three new species, Casmara fulvacorona sp. nov. from Sumatra, C. falcatussica sp. nov. and C. fuscatulipa sp. nov. from Taiwan, based on genitalia characteristics. In addition, we provide a checklist of all Casmara Walker, 1863 species reported to date, including these newly described species, to confirm and clarify the distribution of this genus. Our results demonstrate that the additional use of Micro-CT in insect species identification can provide a scientific basis for reviewing and increasing confidence in species identification based on genital dissection.

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In-Won Jeong www.mdpi.com