Phylogeny, diversification and biogeography of charming moth‐like cicadas in the tribe Gaeanini Distant (Hemiptera, Cicadidae)

Abstract The repeated and convergent evolution of opaque wings and other unique characteristics makes defining the tribes of Cicadidae challenging. Cicadas of Gaeanini, almost endemic to Asia and known as ‘butterfly cicadas’ but more resembling moths, exhibit striking phenotypes with opaque wings and vivid colours. This study presents the first comprehensive phylogeny of Gaeanini based on molecular data of cicadas and genomic data from their obligate endosymbiont Candidatus Karelsulcia muelleri (hereafter Karelsulcia ). Phylogenetic results do not support the monophyly of Gaeanini, with Becquartinina place. nov . nesting within Leptopsaltriini. Consequently, Becquartinina place. nov . is transferred from Gaeanini to Leptopsaltriini, and Gaeanini is redefined with the establishment of three new subtribes: Vittagaeanina subtr. nov ., Callogaeanina subtr. nov ., and Taonina subtr. nov . Additionally, several species are synonymized, and Balinta nigera sp. nov . is erected. The phylogeny of Karelsulcia generally mirrors the host phylogeny, supporting the redefinition of Gaeanini. Gaeanini likely originated in South China and northeastern Indochina during the Early Miocene and diversified in the Early to Mid‐Miocene. Miocene climatic changes, the rise of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, and the formation of Hainan Island, together with the repeated emergence of Qiongzhou Strait, played significant roles in the diversification of Gaeanini. The colourful wing patterns in Gaeanini may serve as automimicry with moths or other related insects, protecting them against predators. This study improves our understanding of the diversification, vicariance, and evolution of this unique cicada tribe and serves as an example for future studies on other taxa of Cicadidae with opaque wings.