Phylogenetic relationship among East Asian species of the Stegana genus group (Diptera, Drosophilidae)

The phylogenetic relationship among 27 East Asian species of the Stegana genus group was reconstructed using DNA sequences of mitochondrial (COI and ND2) and nuclear (28S) genes. The results lent support to the current generic/subgeneric taxonomic classification in the genus group with the exceptions of the paraphyly of the genus Parastegana and the subgenus Oxyphortica in the genus Stegana. The ancestral areas and divergence times in the genus group were reconstructed/estimated, and accordingly, the biogeographical history of this important clade was discussed. It was proposed that, the evolution of the plant family Fagaceae, especially Quercus, may have played a certain role in facilitating the diversification of the Stegana genus group.

Highlights► Phylogeny of the Stegana genus group was reconstructed using DNA sequence data. ► Divergence times were estimated and ancestral areas were reconstructed. ► Historic biogeography was discussed considering the concomitant biotal evolution.