A phylogenetic analysis of New Zealand giant and tree weta (Orthoptera : Anostostomatidae : Deinacrida and Hemideina) using morphological and genetic characters

Abstract

A phylogenetic analysis of New Zealand weta from the sub-family Deinacridinae is presented. Eighteen species were studied using 27 genetic characters (allozyme and cytogenetic) and 25 morphological characters. The combined data set produced a phylogenetic hypothesis with twelve well-supported nodes. Despite the great diversity of habitats and life styles exhibited by the eleven Deinacrida White species a well-supported bipartition separates them from the seven Hemideina Walker species. Six of the Hemideina species formed a monophyletic clade, with respect to H. broughi (Buller). Evolution of stridulatory ridges used for sound production in both defence and intraspecific communication appears to have occurred at least twice. Adaptation to the recent New Zealand alpine environment has also had multiple origins. Biogeographic interpretations from the phylogenetic hypothesis are discussed.