Taxonomic Revision and Molecular Phylogeny of the Genus Morpheis Hübner, [1820] (Lepidoptera: Cossidae)

The genus Morpheis Hübner, [1820] (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) represents a taxonomically challenging group within Zeuzerinae, characterised by uniform, simply structured genitalia and significant intraspecific variability in external morphology, specifically in wing pattern, body colouration, and size. The taxonomic status and phylogenetic placement of many Morpheis taxa remain uncertain. Our study provides the first comprehensive taxonomic revision of Morpheis, based on detailed morphological analysis, examination of type specimens, assessment of distribution records, and molecular data. As a result, here we provide the first complete taxonomic list with updated diagnoses and distribution maps, based on 1247 specimen records and 191 publicly available observations. We describe the female genitalia of Morpheis for the first time and provide illustrations of imagoes for all currently recognised species, as well as of available type specimens. Additionally, we describe the immature stages and summarise the trophic associations of known Morpheis species. Based on morphological and molecular data, we recognise 11 valid Morpheis species. We applied molecular-based species delimitation methods, which uncovered far more candidate species within the genus than are recognised by traditional taxonomy, suggesting overlooked cryptic diversity that morphology alone cannot detect. We conclude that the integrative approach used here provides a powerful tool, especially valuable for understudied Zeuzerinae groups with high intraspecific variability in traditional characters.