Electrophoretic studies in the genus Melanargia Meigen, 1828 (Lepidoptera: Satyridae)

Abstract

The phylogenetic relationships of the Euro-Mediterranean species of Melanargia were studied using enzyme electrophoresis. A dendrogram is presented representing the degree of relationship among populations sampled. Results from the biochemical characterization are only in partial agreement wit,h those obtained from conventional systematic study. Systematic problems at the level of the specific differentiation between M. galathea and M. lachesis are discussed on the basis of biochemical data obtained by parapatric and allopatric populations. The opinion that they represent two distinct, although recent, species is supported.