Ai-ping Liang - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Ai-ping Liang

Research paper thumbnail of A SEM study of antennal and maxillary sensilla in Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)

Micron, 2013

The sensory organs on the antennae and maxillary plates of Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulg... more The sensory organs on the antennae and maxillary plates of Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) are studied using scanning electron microscopy. Four types of antennal sensilla are reported: trichoid sensilla on the antennal scape and antennal pedicel, plate organs on the antennal pedicel, campaniform sensilla on the antennal scape and antennal pedicel, and coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the antennal flagellum. Cuticular denticles and cuticular microtubercles are also present on the antennal pedicel. On the maxillary plates, three campaniform sensilla are discovered. Additionally, Evans' organs are described as placoid sensilla sunk into deep cuticular cavities on the maxillae below the antennae. The morphology of the sensory equipments in this species is provided for possible use in taxonomic and phylogenetic studies within the Tropiduchidae and Fulgoromorpha.

Research paper thumbnail of Review of the Oriental Monotypic Genus Pibrocha Kirkaldy (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Fulgoridae, Dorysarthrinae)

ZooKeys, 2011

The monotypic genus Pibrocha Kirkaldy, 1902, known only from Sri Lanka in the Oriental region, is... more The monotypic genus Pibrocha Kirkaldy, 1902, known only from Sri Lanka in the Oriental region, is closely related to Dorysarthrus Puton, 1895 from southwestern Asia and northern Africa (Palaearctic region). The genus is revised to include a first description of the male genital structures and a discussion of relationships between Pibrocha, Dorysarthrus and Dichoptera Spinola, 1839. A diagnostic key to the three genera and photos of their type species are provided for better comparison in these taxa. Pibrocha is assigned tentatively from Dictyopharidae to the subfamily Dorysarthrinae (Fulgoridae).

Research paper thumbnail of Ultrastructure of sensory equipments on the heads of Kallitaxila granulata (Stål) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)

Microscopy Research and Technique, 2012

The polyphagous planthopper, Kallitaxila granulata (Stå l) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchid... more The polyphagous planthopper, Kallitaxila granulata (Stå l) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), has been recently introduced into southeastern China, the Philippine islands, and Hawaii, where it has done significant damage to agricultural and forest ecosystems. The external morphology of the heads of adult male and female K. granulata was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Seven types of sensilla were reported: trichoid sensilla and campaniform sensilla on the antennal pedicel, antennal scape and maxilla; plate organs on the antennal pedicel; coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the expanded flagellar base; ampullaceal sensilla on the antennal pedicel; wavy-pit sensilla on the antennal pedicel and antennal scape; and coinshaped sensilla on each lateral side of the labium. Evans' organ was described as placoid sensilla sunk into shallow cuticular cavities below the antennae. The external morphology, distribution, and abundance of sensilla located on antennae, maxillae, and labium in K. granulata were illustrated, with a brief discussion of their taxonomic, phylogenetic, and putative functional significance. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1659-1665, 2012 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com).

Research paper thumbnail of Review of the Paricanini (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) – key to the genera and description of a new genus and species from Cambodia.

The genera of Tropiduchidae tribe Paricanini are discussed and their key to identification of the... more The genera of Tropiduchidae tribe Paricanini are discussed and their key to identification of the genera is given and key characters illustrated. The new genus Lukabales gen. nov. with a new species Lukabales ecarinatus sp. nov. is described based on specimens collected in montane areas of Cambodia and Thailand.

Research paper thumbnail of Systematic revision of Aluntiini Emeljanov, 1979 (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Dictyopharidae: Dictyopharinae): reclassification, phylogenetic analysis, and biogeography.

The dictyopharid planthopper tribe Aluntiini s.l. is revised and reclassified into two tribes: Al... more The dictyopharid planthopper tribe Aluntiini s.l. is revised and reclassified into two tribes: Aluntiini s.s. and Arjunini Song & Szwedo trib. nov. The tribe Aluntiini s.s. includes five genera: Aluntia Stål, 1866; Dendrophora Melichar, 1903 stat. rev.; Dictyomorpha Melichar, 1912; Indodictyophara Liang & Song, 2012; and Madagascaritia Song & Liang gen. nov. The new tribe Arjunini comprises two genera – Arjuna Muir, 1934 and Pippax Emeljanov, 2008 – both moved from Aluntiini s.l. Four new species – Aluntia longicephalica Song & Szwedo sp. nov., Madagascaritia angusta Song & Liang sp. nov., Arjuna maai Song & Wang sp. nov., and Arjuna muiri Song & Wang sp. nov. – are described. A morphologically based phylogenetic analysis is undertaken for Aluntiini, Arjunini, and the representatives of Dictyopharini, Hastini, Orthopagini, and the fossil Worskaitini within Dictyopharinae, all distributed in the Old World. A matrix of 129 characters of the habitus, coloration, head, thorax, and male and female genitalia of the adults was used for the cladistic analysis. The phylogenetic results show that Aluntiini s.l. as placed in Dictyopharidae is well supported, but it is distinctly paraphyletic and should be separated into two unambiguous tribes. A palaeotropical distribution pattern displayed by Aluntiini is suggested. The origin and diversification of Aluntiini are discussed preliminarily.

Research paper thumbnail of The identification of butterfly families using content-based image retrieval

Biosystems Engineering, 2012

There is increasing interest in the automatic identification of insect species from images.

Research paper thumbnail of Taxonomic review of the genus Tambinia Stål (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Tropiduchidae) with descriptions of four new species from the Pacific region

ZooKeys, 2011

Four new species of Tambinia Stål (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), Tambinia conussp. n.... more Four new species of Tambinia Stål (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), Tambinia conussp. n. (Papua New Guinea), Tambinia maculasp. n. (Malaysia: Borneo), Tambinia robustocarinasp. n. (Malaysia: Sabah) and Tambinia sexmaculatasp. n. (Australia: Kuranda) are described and illustrated from the Pacific region. The diagnostic characters of this genus are redefined. A checklist and a key to the known species of Tambinia are provided.

Research paper thumbnail of A preliminary molecular phylogeny of planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) based on nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences

PloS one, 2013

The planthopper superfamily Fulgoroidea (Insecta: Hemiptera) is one of the most dominant groups o... more The planthopper superfamily Fulgoroidea (Insecta: Hemiptera) is one of the most dominant groups of phytophagous insects. It comprises about 20 families, containing a total of 9000 species worldwide. Despite several recent studies, the phylogeny of Fulgoroidea is not yet satisfactorily resolved and the phylogenetic positions of several key families, especially Cixiidae, Delphacidae, Tettigometridae, Nogodinidae, Acanaloniidae and Issidae, are contentious. Here, we expand upon recent phylogenetic work using additional nuclear (18S and 28S) and novel mitochondrial (16S and cytb) markers. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses yielded robust phylogenetic trees. In these topologies, a group containing Cixiidae and Delphacidae is recovered as the sister group to the remaining taxa. Tettigometridae is placed in a more nested position and is grouped with Caliscelidae. Sister relationships are found between Flatidae and Ricaniidae, and between Dictyopharidae and Fulgoridae. Nogodinidae and...

Research paper thumbnail of Revision of the Spittlebug Genus Euryaulax Kirkaldy (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Cercopidae) From Australia

Annals of the Entomological Society of America, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of A Molecular Phylogeny of Hemiptera Inferred from Mitochondrial Genome Sequences

PLoS ONE, 2012

Classically, Hemiptera is comprised of two suborders: Homoptera and Heteroptera. Homoptera includ... more Classically, Hemiptera is comprised of two suborders: Homoptera and Heteroptera. Homoptera includes Cicadomorpha, Fulgoromorpha and Sternorrhyncha. However, according to previous molecular phylogenetic studies based on 18S rDNA, Fulgoromorpha has a closer relationship to Heteroptera than to other hemipterans, leaving Homoptera as paraphyletic. Therefore, the position of Fulgoromorpha is important for studying phylogenetic structure of Hemiptera. We inferred the evolutionary affiliations of twenty-five superfamilies of Hemiptera using mitochondrial protein-coding genes and rRNAs. We sequenced three mitogenomes, from Pyrops candelaria, Lycorma delicatula and Ricania marginalis, representing two additional families in Fulgoromorpha. Pyrops and Lycorma are representatives of an additional major family Fulgoridae in Fulgoromorpha, whereas Ricania is a second representative of the highly derived clade Ricaniidae. The organization and size of these mitogenomes are similar to those of the sequenced fulgoroid species. Our consensus phylogeny of Hemiptera largely supported the relationships (((Fulgoromorpha,Sternorrhyncha),Cicadomorpha),Heteroptera), and thus supported the classic phylogeny of Hemiptera. Selection of optimal evolutionary models (exclusion and inclusion of two rRNA genes or of third codon positions of protein-coding genes) demonstrated that rapidly evolving and saturated sites should be removed from the analyses.

Research paper thumbnail of A new automatic identification system of insect images at the order level

Knowledge-Based Systems, 2012

A new automatic identification system has been designed to identify insect specimen images at the... more A new automatic identification system has been designed to identify insect specimen images at the order level. Several relative features were designed according to the methods of digital image progressing, pattern recognition and the theory of taxonomy. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) and a support vector machine (SVM) are used as pattern recognition methods for the identification tests. During tests on nine common orders and sub-orders with an artificial neural network, the system performed with good stability and accuracy reached 93%. Results from tests using the support vector machine further improved accuracy. We also did tests on eight-and nine-orders with different features and based on these results we compare the advantages and disadvantages of our system and provide some advice for future research on insect image recognition.

Research paper thumbnail of Compound Microstructures and Wax Layer of Beetle Elytral Surfaces and Their Influence on Wetting Properties

PLoS ONE, 2012

A beetles' first line of defense against environmental hazards is their mesothoracic elytra -rigi... more A beetles' first line of defense against environmental hazards is their mesothoracic elytra -rigid, protective forewings. In order to study the interaction of these wings with water, the surface microstructures of various beetles' elytra were observed by Environment Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Chemistry components were ascertained using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All the beetles of various habitats (including desert, plant, dung, land and water) exhibited compound microstructures on their elytra. The wetting properties of these elytra were identified using an optical contact angle meter. In general the native elytra exhibited hydrophilic or weak hydrophobic properties with contact angles (CAs) ranging from 47.5u to 109.1u. After treatment with chloroform, the CAs all increased on the rougher elytral surfaces. The presence of wax is not the only determinant of hydrophobic properties, but rather a combination with microscopic structures found on the surfaces. Irregularities and the presence or absence of tiny cracks, hairs (or setae), pores and protrusions are important factors which influence the wetting properties. Rougher elytral surfaces tended to present a stronger hydrophobicity. Effects on hydrophobicity, such as surface microstructures, chemistry, environment and aging (referring to the time after emergence), are also included and discussed. Our results also provide insights into the motion of water droplets when in contact with beetle elytra.

Research paper thumbnail of Microstructure and Wettability on the Elytral Surface of Aquatic Beetle

Applied Mechanics and Materials, 2013

The microstructures on elytral surface of aquatic beetles belonging to Hydrophilidae and Dytiscid... more The microstructures on elytral surface of aquatic beetles belonging to Hydrophilidae and Dytiscidae were observed under an environment scanning microscope, and the wettabilities were determined with an optical contact angle meter. The results show the elytral surfaces are relatively smooth compared to the structures of other insects such as the butterfly wing scales or cicada wing protrusions. They exhibit a polygonal structuring with grooves and pores being the main constituent units. The contact angles (CAs) range from 47.1 o to 82.1 o . The advancing and receding angles were measured by injecting into and withdrawing a small amount of water on the most hydrophilic (with a contact angle of 47.1 o ) and hydrophobic (with a contact angle of 82.1 o ) elytral surfaces, which illustrates the vital role of three-phase contact line (TCL) in the wetting mechanism of aquatic beetle elytral surfaces.

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of Cuticle Nanostructuring on the Wetting Behaviour/States on Cicada Wings

PLoS ONE, 2012

The nanoscale protrusions of different morphologies on wing surfaces of four cicada species were ... more The nanoscale protrusions of different morphologies on wing surfaces of four cicada species were examined under an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). The water contact angles (CAs) of the wing surfaces were measured along with droplet adhesion values using a high-sensitivity microelectromechanical balance system. The water CA and adhesive force measurements obtained were found to relate to the nanostructuring differences of the four species. The adhesive forces in combination with the Cassie-Baxter and Wenzel approximations were used to predict wetting states of the insect wing cuticles. The more disordered and inhomogeneous surface of the species Leptopsalta bifuscata demonstrated a Wenzel type wetting state or an intermediate state of spreading and imbibition with a CA of 81.3u and high adhesive force of 149.5 mN. Three other species (Cryptotympana atrata, Meimuna opalifer and Aola bindusara) exhibited nanostructuring of the form of conically shaped protrusions, which were spherically capped. These surfaces presented a range of high adhesional values; however, the CAs were highly hydrophobic (C. atrata and A. bindusara) and in some cases close to superhydrophobic (M. opalifer). The wetting states of A. bindusara, C. atrata and M. opalifer (based on adhesion and CAs) are most likely represented by the transitional region between the Cassie-Baxter and Wenzel approximations to varying degrees.

Research paper thumbnail of A study of the anti-reflection efficiency of natural nano-arrays of varying sizes

Bioinspiration & Biomimetics, 2011

The dependence of optical reflectivity and wettability on the surface topography of 32 species of... more The dependence of optical reflectivity and wettability on the surface topography of 32 species of cicada wing membranes has been investigated using UV-visible spectrophotometry, contact angle measurements and environmental scanning electron microscopy. The nanoscale hexagonally close packed protrusions have been shown to exhibit an anti-reflection and in some cases an anti-wetting function. The parameters of the structures were measured to be 77-148 nm in diameter, 44-117 nm in spacing and 159-481 nm in height. The transmittance spectrum and static contact angles were measured. At a wavelength range of 500-2500 nm, only minor differences in the anti-reflection performance were observed for each cicada species ascribed to the mechanism of impedance matching between cuticle and air. The transmittance properties of cicada wings were altered successfully through the scanning probe microscope-based manipulation by reducing the protrusion height via the contact mode. A near linear dependence was found between a decrease in protuberance height and a resulting increase in reflectance intensity. A diversity of wettability was observed with contact angles varying from 56.5° to 146.0°. Both effects of anti-reflection and wettability are dependent on the height of protrusions. The anti-reflection is insensitive when the wavelength is larger than the lateral feature size of the nanostructure. The stronger hydrophobic properties are generally associated with a larger diameter, closer spacing and greater height of protrusions when the wing membrane is intact.

Research paper thumbnail of Wetting properties on nanostructured surfaces of cicada wings

Journal of Experimental Biology, 2009

This study has investigated the wettability of forewings of 15 species of cicadas, with distinctl... more This study has investigated the wettability of forewings of 15 species of cicadas, with distinctly different wetting properties related to their nanostructures. The wing surfaces exhibited hydrophilic or weak to strong hydrophobic properties with contact angles ranging from 76.8 deg. to 146.0 deg. The nanostructures (protrusions), observed using environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), were classified into four types according to the patterning, diameter (82-148 nm), spacing (44-117 nm) and height (159-446 nm). Surface analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed significant differences in wing membrane chemistry. Thus, wetting properties at the macroscopic scale were dependent on slight differences in nanoscale architecture and composition of the wax layer. This investigation offers insights into the diversity of nanostructuring and how subtle small-scale changes may facilitate large changes in wettability.

Research paper thumbnail of The genus Jembra Metcalf and Horton from Taiwan with descriptions of two new species and the nymph of J. taiwana sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae)

4 Correspondeing author. Abstract The genus Jembra Metcalf and Horton comprises five species from... more 4 Correspondeing author. Abstract The genus Jembra Metcalf and Horton comprises five species from Taiwan and China. In this paper, the fauna of the genus from Taiwan is reviewed and includes three species. Two new species, J. kuanae sp. nov. and J. taiwana sp. nov., are described, and J. inouyei Matsumura is redescribed. The fourth and fifth instar nymph of

Research paper thumbnail of TWO NEW SPECIES OF TOMOCERUS (SENSU STRICTO) NICOLET, 1842 (COLLEMBOLA: TOMOCERIDAE) FROM TIBET, CHINA

Entomological News, 2006

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Seven New Species of Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae), with Notes on Antennal Sensilla and Wax Glands

Ai-Ping Liang (2002) Seven new species of Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae), w... more Ai-Ping Liang (2002) Seven new species of Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae), with notes on antennal sensilla and wax glands. Zoological Studies 41(4): 388-402. Seven new species of the Oriental planthopper genus Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae) are described and illustrated: K. albipennis sp. nov. (southwestern China: Yunnan); K. fusca sp. nov. (southern China: Hubei, Guangxi), K. ochracea sp. nov.

Research paper thumbnail of Revision, Phylogeny, and Biogeography of the Spittlebug Tribe Capnodistini (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae) from Southeast Asia

Annals of the Entomological Society of America

The southeast Asian spittlebug tribe Capnodistini (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae) is defi... more The southeast Asian spittlebug tribe Capnodistini (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae) is defined to include two genera Capnodistes Breddin and Dinda Distant. Three new species are described and illustrated: Dinda flavimacula sp. nov. (southwest China: Yunnan, Guangxi, Guizhou), Capnodistes latipenis sp. nov. (Indonesia: Sumatra) and Capnodistes sandakanensis sp. nov. (Malaysia: Borneo). Daha Distant is proposed as a new junior synonym of Capnodistes Breddin. Three new combinations, Capnodistes arietarius (Distant, 1908), comb. nov. (fromDaha), C. kuchingensis (Distant, 1908), comb. nov. (from Daha) and Dinda carpio (Breddin, 1903), comb. nov. (from Capnodistes) are established. Lectotypes are newly designated for D. maura, C. arietarius, and C. kuchingensis. Dinda carpio, C. arietarius, and C. esox are reported from Singapore, Laos and Malaysia (Malay Peninsula, Sarawak), and Singapore, respectively, for the first time. Keys for the separation of Capnodistes and Dinda and their ...

Research paper thumbnail of A SEM study of antennal and maxillary sensilla in Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)

Micron, 2013

The sensory organs on the antennae and maxillary plates of Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulg... more The sensory organs on the antennae and maxillary plates of Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) are studied using scanning electron microscopy. Four types of antennal sensilla are reported: trichoid sensilla on the antennal scape and antennal pedicel, plate organs on the antennal pedicel, campaniform sensilla on the antennal scape and antennal pedicel, and coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the antennal flagellum. Cuticular denticles and cuticular microtubercles are also present on the antennal pedicel. On the maxillary plates, three campaniform sensilla are discovered. Additionally, Evans' organs are described as placoid sensilla sunk into deep cuticular cavities on the maxillae below the antennae. The morphology of the sensory equipments in this species is provided for possible use in taxonomic and phylogenetic studies within the Tropiduchidae and Fulgoromorpha.

Research paper thumbnail of Review of the Oriental Monotypic Genus Pibrocha Kirkaldy (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Fulgoridae, Dorysarthrinae)

ZooKeys, 2011

The monotypic genus Pibrocha Kirkaldy, 1902, known only from Sri Lanka in the Oriental region, is... more The monotypic genus Pibrocha Kirkaldy, 1902, known only from Sri Lanka in the Oriental region, is closely related to Dorysarthrus Puton, 1895 from southwestern Asia and northern Africa (Palaearctic region). The genus is revised to include a first description of the male genital structures and a discussion of relationships between Pibrocha, Dorysarthrus and Dichoptera Spinola, 1839. A diagnostic key to the three genera and photos of their type species are provided for better comparison in these taxa. Pibrocha is assigned tentatively from Dictyopharidae to the subfamily Dorysarthrinae (Fulgoridae).

Research paper thumbnail of Ultrastructure of sensory equipments on the heads of Kallitaxila granulata (Stål) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)

Microscopy Research and Technique, 2012

The polyphagous planthopper, Kallitaxila granulata (Stå l) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchid... more The polyphagous planthopper, Kallitaxila granulata (Stå l) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), has been recently introduced into southeastern China, the Philippine islands, and Hawaii, where it has done significant damage to agricultural and forest ecosystems. The external morphology of the heads of adult male and female K. granulata was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Seven types of sensilla were reported: trichoid sensilla and campaniform sensilla on the antennal pedicel, antennal scape and maxilla; plate organs on the antennal pedicel; coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the expanded flagellar base; ampullaceal sensilla on the antennal pedicel; wavy-pit sensilla on the antennal pedicel and antennal scape; and coinshaped sensilla on each lateral side of the labium. Evans' organ was described as placoid sensilla sunk into shallow cuticular cavities below the antennae. The external morphology, distribution, and abundance of sensilla located on antennae, maxillae, and labium in K. granulata were illustrated, with a brief discussion of their taxonomic, phylogenetic, and putative functional significance. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1659-1665, 2012 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com).

Research paper thumbnail of Review of the Paricanini (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) – key to the genera and description of a new genus and species from Cambodia.

The genera of Tropiduchidae tribe Paricanini are discussed and their key to identification of the... more The genera of Tropiduchidae tribe Paricanini are discussed and their key to identification of the genera is given and key characters illustrated. The new genus Lukabales gen. nov. with a new species Lukabales ecarinatus sp. nov. is described based on specimens collected in montane areas of Cambodia and Thailand.

Research paper thumbnail of Systematic revision of Aluntiini Emeljanov, 1979 (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Dictyopharidae: Dictyopharinae): reclassification, phylogenetic analysis, and biogeography.

The dictyopharid planthopper tribe Aluntiini s.l. is revised and reclassified into two tribes: Al... more The dictyopharid planthopper tribe Aluntiini s.l. is revised and reclassified into two tribes: Aluntiini s.s. and Arjunini Song & Szwedo trib. nov. The tribe Aluntiini s.s. includes five genera: Aluntia Stål, 1866; Dendrophora Melichar, 1903 stat. rev.; Dictyomorpha Melichar, 1912; Indodictyophara Liang & Song, 2012; and Madagascaritia Song & Liang gen. nov. The new tribe Arjunini comprises two genera – Arjuna Muir, 1934 and Pippax Emeljanov, 2008 – both moved from Aluntiini s.l. Four new species – Aluntia longicephalica Song & Szwedo sp. nov., Madagascaritia angusta Song & Liang sp. nov., Arjuna maai Song & Wang sp. nov., and Arjuna muiri Song & Wang sp. nov. – are described. A morphologically based phylogenetic analysis is undertaken for Aluntiini, Arjunini, and the representatives of Dictyopharini, Hastini, Orthopagini, and the fossil Worskaitini within Dictyopharinae, all distributed in the Old World. A matrix of 129 characters of the habitus, coloration, head, thorax, and male and female genitalia of the adults was used for the cladistic analysis. The phylogenetic results show that Aluntiini s.l. as placed in Dictyopharidae is well supported, but it is distinctly paraphyletic and should be separated into two unambiguous tribes. A palaeotropical distribution pattern displayed by Aluntiini is suggested. The origin and diversification of Aluntiini are discussed preliminarily.

Research paper thumbnail of The identification of butterfly families using content-based image retrieval

Biosystems Engineering, 2012

There is increasing interest in the automatic identification of insect species from images.

Research paper thumbnail of Taxonomic review of the genus Tambinia Stål (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Tropiduchidae) with descriptions of four new species from the Pacific region

ZooKeys, 2011

Four new species of Tambinia Stål (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), Tambinia conussp. n.... more Four new species of Tambinia Stål (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), Tambinia conussp. n. (Papua New Guinea), Tambinia maculasp. n. (Malaysia: Borneo), Tambinia robustocarinasp. n. (Malaysia: Sabah) and Tambinia sexmaculatasp. n. (Australia: Kuranda) are described and illustrated from the Pacific region. The diagnostic characters of this genus are redefined. A checklist and a key to the known species of Tambinia are provided.

Research paper thumbnail of A preliminary molecular phylogeny of planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) based on nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences

PloS one, 2013

The planthopper superfamily Fulgoroidea (Insecta: Hemiptera) is one of the most dominant groups o... more The planthopper superfamily Fulgoroidea (Insecta: Hemiptera) is one of the most dominant groups of phytophagous insects. It comprises about 20 families, containing a total of 9000 species worldwide. Despite several recent studies, the phylogeny of Fulgoroidea is not yet satisfactorily resolved and the phylogenetic positions of several key families, especially Cixiidae, Delphacidae, Tettigometridae, Nogodinidae, Acanaloniidae and Issidae, are contentious. Here, we expand upon recent phylogenetic work using additional nuclear (18S and 28S) and novel mitochondrial (16S and cytb) markers. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses yielded robust phylogenetic trees. In these topologies, a group containing Cixiidae and Delphacidae is recovered as the sister group to the remaining taxa. Tettigometridae is placed in a more nested position and is grouped with Caliscelidae. Sister relationships are found between Flatidae and Ricaniidae, and between Dictyopharidae and Fulgoridae. Nogodinidae and...

Research paper thumbnail of Revision of the Spittlebug Genus Euryaulax Kirkaldy (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Cercopidae) From Australia

Annals of the Entomological Society of America, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of A Molecular Phylogeny of Hemiptera Inferred from Mitochondrial Genome Sequences

PLoS ONE, 2012

Classically, Hemiptera is comprised of two suborders: Homoptera and Heteroptera. Homoptera includ... more Classically, Hemiptera is comprised of two suborders: Homoptera and Heteroptera. Homoptera includes Cicadomorpha, Fulgoromorpha and Sternorrhyncha. However, according to previous molecular phylogenetic studies based on 18S rDNA, Fulgoromorpha has a closer relationship to Heteroptera than to other hemipterans, leaving Homoptera as paraphyletic. Therefore, the position of Fulgoromorpha is important for studying phylogenetic structure of Hemiptera. We inferred the evolutionary affiliations of twenty-five superfamilies of Hemiptera using mitochondrial protein-coding genes and rRNAs. We sequenced three mitogenomes, from Pyrops candelaria, Lycorma delicatula and Ricania marginalis, representing two additional families in Fulgoromorpha. Pyrops and Lycorma are representatives of an additional major family Fulgoridae in Fulgoromorpha, whereas Ricania is a second representative of the highly derived clade Ricaniidae. The organization and size of these mitogenomes are similar to those of the sequenced fulgoroid species. Our consensus phylogeny of Hemiptera largely supported the relationships (((Fulgoromorpha,Sternorrhyncha),Cicadomorpha),Heteroptera), and thus supported the classic phylogeny of Hemiptera. Selection of optimal evolutionary models (exclusion and inclusion of two rRNA genes or of third codon positions of protein-coding genes) demonstrated that rapidly evolving and saturated sites should be removed from the analyses.

Research paper thumbnail of A new automatic identification system of insect images at the order level

Knowledge-Based Systems, 2012

A new automatic identification system has been designed to identify insect specimen images at the... more A new automatic identification system has been designed to identify insect specimen images at the order level. Several relative features were designed according to the methods of digital image progressing, pattern recognition and the theory of taxonomy. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) and a support vector machine (SVM) are used as pattern recognition methods for the identification tests. During tests on nine common orders and sub-orders with an artificial neural network, the system performed with good stability and accuracy reached 93%. Results from tests using the support vector machine further improved accuracy. We also did tests on eight-and nine-orders with different features and based on these results we compare the advantages and disadvantages of our system and provide some advice for future research on insect image recognition.

Research paper thumbnail of Compound Microstructures and Wax Layer of Beetle Elytral Surfaces and Their Influence on Wetting Properties

PLoS ONE, 2012

A beetles' first line of defense against environmental hazards is their mesothoracic elytra -rigi... more A beetles' first line of defense against environmental hazards is their mesothoracic elytra -rigid, protective forewings. In order to study the interaction of these wings with water, the surface microstructures of various beetles' elytra were observed by Environment Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Chemistry components were ascertained using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All the beetles of various habitats (including desert, plant, dung, land and water) exhibited compound microstructures on their elytra. The wetting properties of these elytra were identified using an optical contact angle meter. In general the native elytra exhibited hydrophilic or weak hydrophobic properties with contact angles (CAs) ranging from 47.5u to 109.1u. After treatment with chloroform, the CAs all increased on the rougher elytral surfaces. The presence of wax is not the only determinant of hydrophobic properties, but rather a combination with microscopic structures found on the surfaces. Irregularities and the presence or absence of tiny cracks, hairs (or setae), pores and protrusions are important factors which influence the wetting properties. Rougher elytral surfaces tended to present a stronger hydrophobicity. Effects on hydrophobicity, such as surface microstructures, chemistry, environment and aging (referring to the time after emergence), are also included and discussed. Our results also provide insights into the motion of water droplets when in contact with beetle elytra.

Research paper thumbnail of Microstructure and Wettability on the Elytral Surface of Aquatic Beetle

Applied Mechanics and Materials, 2013

The microstructures on elytral surface of aquatic beetles belonging to Hydrophilidae and Dytiscid... more The microstructures on elytral surface of aquatic beetles belonging to Hydrophilidae and Dytiscidae were observed under an environment scanning microscope, and the wettabilities were determined with an optical contact angle meter. The results show the elytral surfaces are relatively smooth compared to the structures of other insects such as the butterfly wing scales or cicada wing protrusions. They exhibit a polygonal structuring with grooves and pores being the main constituent units. The contact angles (CAs) range from 47.1 o to 82.1 o . The advancing and receding angles were measured by injecting into and withdrawing a small amount of water on the most hydrophilic (with a contact angle of 47.1 o ) and hydrophobic (with a contact angle of 82.1 o ) elytral surfaces, which illustrates the vital role of three-phase contact line (TCL) in the wetting mechanism of aquatic beetle elytral surfaces.

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of Cuticle Nanostructuring on the Wetting Behaviour/States on Cicada Wings

PLoS ONE, 2012

The nanoscale protrusions of different morphologies on wing surfaces of four cicada species were ... more The nanoscale protrusions of different morphologies on wing surfaces of four cicada species were examined under an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). The water contact angles (CAs) of the wing surfaces were measured along with droplet adhesion values using a high-sensitivity microelectromechanical balance system. The water CA and adhesive force measurements obtained were found to relate to the nanostructuring differences of the four species. The adhesive forces in combination with the Cassie-Baxter and Wenzel approximations were used to predict wetting states of the insect wing cuticles. The more disordered and inhomogeneous surface of the species Leptopsalta bifuscata demonstrated a Wenzel type wetting state or an intermediate state of spreading and imbibition with a CA of 81.3u and high adhesive force of 149.5 mN. Three other species (Cryptotympana atrata, Meimuna opalifer and Aola bindusara) exhibited nanostructuring of the form of conically shaped protrusions, which were spherically capped. These surfaces presented a range of high adhesional values; however, the CAs were highly hydrophobic (C. atrata and A. bindusara) and in some cases close to superhydrophobic (M. opalifer). The wetting states of A. bindusara, C. atrata and M. opalifer (based on adhesion and CAs) are most likely represented by the transitional region between the Cassie-Baxter and Wenzel approximations to varying degrees.

Research paper thumbnail of A study of the anti-reflection efficiency of natural nano-arrays of varying sizes

Bioinspiration & Biomimetics, 2011

The dependence of optical reflectivity and wettability on the surface topography of 32 species of... more The dependence of optical reflectivity and wettability on the surface topography of 32 species of cicada wing membranes has been investigated using UV-visible spectrophotometry, contact angle measurements and environmental scanning electron microscopy. The nanoscale hexagonally close packed protrusions have been shown to exhibit an anti-reflection and in some cases an anti-wetting function. The parameters of the structures were measured to be 77-148 nm in diameter, 44-117 nm in spacing and 159-481 nm in height. The transmittance spectrum and static contact angles were measured. At a wavelength range of 500-2500 nm, only minor differences in the anti-reflection performance were observed for each cicada species ascribed to the mechanism of impedance matching between cuticle and air. The transmittance properties of cicada wings were altered successfully through the scanning probe microscope-based manipulation by reducing the protrusion height via the contact mode. A near linear dependence was found between a decrease in protuberance height and a resulting increase in reflectance intensity. A diversity of wettability was observed with contact angles varying from 56.5° to 146.0°. Both effects of anti-reflection and wettability are dependent on the height of protrusions. The anti-reflection is insensitive when the wavelength is larger than the lateral feature size of the nanostructure. The stronger hydrophobic properties are generally associated with a larger diameter, closer spacing and greater height of protrusions when the wing membrane is intact.

Research paper thumbnail of Wetting properties on nanostructured surfaces of cicada wings

Journal of Experimental Biology, 2009

This study has investigated the wettability of forewings of 15 species of cicadas, with distinctl... more This study has investigated the wettability of forewings of 15 species of cicadas, with distinctly different wetting properties related to their nanostructures. The wing surfaces exhibited hydrophilic or weak to strong hydrophobic properties with contact angles ranging from 76.8 deg. to 146.0 deg. The nanostructures (protrusions), observed using environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), were classified into four types according to the patterning, diameter (82-148 nm), spacing (44-117 nm) and height (159-446 nm). Surface analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed significant differences in wing membrane chemistry. Thus, wetting properties at the macroscopic scale were dependent on slight differences in nanoscale architecture and composition of the wax layer. This investigation offers insights into the diversity of nanostructuring and how subtle small-scale changes may facilitate large changes in wettability.

Research paper thumbnail of The genus Jembra Metcalf and Horton from Taiwan with descriptions of two new species and the nymph of J. taiwana sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae)

4 Correspondeing author. Abstract The genus Jembra Metcalf and Horton comprises five species from... more 4 Correspondeing author. Abstract The genus Jembra Metcalf and Horton comprises five species from Taiwan and China. In this paper, the fauna of the genus from Taiwan is reviewed and includes three species. Two new species, J. kuanae sp. nov. and J. taiwana sp. nov., are described, and J. inouyei Matsumura is redescribed. The fourth and fifth instar nymph of

Research paper thumbnail of TWO NEW SPECIES OF TOMOCERUS (SENSU STRICTO) NICOLET, 1842 (COLLEMBOLA: TOMOCERIDAE) FROM TIBET, CHINA

Entomological News, 2006

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Seven New Species of Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae), with Notes on Antennal Sensilla and Wax Glands

Ai-Ping Liang (2002) Seven new species of Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae), w... more Ai-Ping Liang (2002) Seven new species of Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae), with notes on antennal sensilla and wax glands. Zoological Studies 41(4): 388-402. Seven new species of the Oriental planthopper genus Kinnara Distant (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Kinnaridae) are described and illustrated: K. albipennis sp. nov. (southwestern China: Yunnan); K. fusca sp. nov. (southern China: Hubei, Guangxi), K. ochracea sp. nov.

Research paper thumbnail of Revision, Phylogeny, and Biogeography of the Spittlebug Tribe Capnodistini (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae) from Southeast Asia

Annals of the Entomological Society of America

The southeast Asian spittlebug tribe Capnodistini (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae) is defi... more The southeast Asian spittlebug tribe Capnodistini (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Aphrophoridae) is defined to include two genera Capnodistes Breddin and Dinda Distant. Three new species are described and illustrated: Dinda flavimacula sp. nov. (southwest China: Yunnan, Guangxi, Guizhou), Capnodistes latipenis sp. nov. (Indonesia: Sumatra) and Capnodistes sandakanensis sp. nov. (Malaysia: Borneo). Daha Distant is proposed as a new junior synonym of Capnodistes Breddin. Three new combinations, Capnodistes arietarius (Distant, 1908), comb. nov. (fromDaha), C. kuchingensis (Distant, 1908), comb. nov. (from Daha) and Dinda carpio (Breddin, 1903), comb. nov. (from Capnodistes) are established. Lectotypes are newly designated for D. maura, C. arietarius, and C. kuchingensis. Dinda carpio, C. arietarius, and C. esox are reported from Singapore, Laos and Malaysia (Malay Peninsula, Sarawak), and Singapore, respectively, for the first time. Keys for the separation of Capnodistes and Dinda and their ...