Abstract

The Macaronesian archipelagos harbor a highly endemic fauna of the flatid genus Cyphopterum Melichar, 1905, characterized by pronounced insular diversification. Despite approximately 80% of its species being unique to the region, the morphology and biology of their immature stages remain virtually unknown. This lack of ontogenetic data has long hindered more thorough studies on these planthoppers. To address this gap, the present study provides the first comprehensive description of all five nymphal instars of Cyphopterum retusum (Walker, 1851) and C. fauveli Noualhier, 1897 from the Madeira archipelago. Nymphs were reared under controlled laboratory conditions to analyze developmental duration, survival rates, and morphological features. Our results demonstrate that nymphal morphology offers robust diagnostic characters. Specifically, body size, species-specific coloration, and integumentary textures distinguish the two species, whereas body size combined with the number of metatibial spines and tarsomeres and the number and arrangement of sensory pits, allow for reliable instar determination. These findings fill a significant gap in the knowledge of the family Flatidae and provide essential tools for the conservation and monitoring of these endemic lineages in vulnerable Macaronesian ecosystems.

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