First mitochondrial DNA data and preliminary phylogenetic relationship of the endemic mole cricket Gryllotalpa cossyrensis (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae) from Pantelleria Island (Sicily, Italy)

Gryllotalpa (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae) is a species-rich and taxonomically complex genus for which molecular data remain relatively scarce, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Gryllotalpa cossyrensis Baccetti and Capra, included within the Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa group of species, is endemic to Pantelleria Island (Sicily, Italy). The species was originally described and diagnosed based on its chromosome number, but its genetic identity and phylogenetic affinities have not yet been investigated. In this study, we provide the first molecular characterisation of G. cossyrensis based on two mitochondrial markers (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S rRNA). Phylogenetic relationships with other species of the genus were inferred using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses, including available COI and 16S sequences of congeners from Europe, Africa and Asia. Our analyses confirmed G. cossyrensis as a well-supported, genetically distinct species, placed within a clade comprising species traditionally assigned to the G. gryllotalpa species group. Genetic distances between G. cossyrensis and other available species further supported its specific status. Our results suggest a possible insular evolutionary history for G. cossyrensis, while also highlighting the need for broader molecular sampling to better disentangle phylogenetic relationships and diversification patterns within the G. gryllotalpa group. From a conservation perspective, the genetic distinctiveness of this narrowly distributed insular endemite underscores its potential vulnerability and the importance of preserving its unique habitat. The conservation of endemic species has come into the global spotlight, not only because of their contribution to biodiversity but also their vulnerability and high extinction risk due to environmental and anthropogenic threats.