A New Comprehensive Generic Framework for Tettigometra Latreille, 1804 s.l.: A Taxonomic and Nomenclatural Revision of the Tribe Tettigometrini (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha)

The taxonomy of <i>Tettigometra</i> Latreille, 1804 <i>s.l.</i> (Hemiptera, Tettigometridae, Tettigometrini) has long remained unstable due to weak diagnostic characters, conflicting interpretations, and frequent misidentifications. Based on extensive examination of the illustrated literature and major museum collections, a new generic framework is proposed, relying primarily on comparative analyses of male genital morphology (particularly the mediodorsal aedeagal process and paired ventral anal processes) while external morphology alone is shown to be unreliable for stable delimitation. In discussing the need for a taxonomy that is both phylogenetically grounded and operational, allowing reliable identifications, preserving compatibility with past determinations despite the lack of molecular evidence, and remaining flexible enough to accommodate future results, we recognize two informal taxonomic groups and fourteen genera. The tettigometrinan group includes <i>Tettigometra</i>, <i>Brachyceps</i>, <i>Metroplaca</i>, <i>Mimarada</i>, <i>Mediodentometra</i><b><i>gen. nov.</i></b>, and <i>Persiametra</i><b><i>gen. nov.</i></b>; the apexometrinan group includes <i>Apexometra</i><b><i>gen. nov.</i></b>, <i>Erratometra</i><b><i>gen. nov.</i></b>, <i>Eurychila</i>, <i>Hystrigonia</i>, <i>Micracanthometra</i><b><i>gen. nov.</i></b>, <i>Mitricephalus</i>, <i>Stirometra</i>, and <i>Macrometrina</i>. Following a conservative and operational taxonomic approach, we refrained from describing new species or accepting unsubstantiated synonymies, preferring to retain potentially distinct forms as provisionally valid species pending molecular confirmation. Each taxon is listed with its taxonomic and nomenclatural status, diagnosis, species composition, and distribution. Problematic taxa and misapplied names are clarified, and a key to genera is provided.