Addressing biodiversity knowledge shortfalls in New World Helicopsychidae (Insecta, Trichoptera) : potential distribution, environmental gradients, and identification of conservation and research priority areas

Abstract

This study provides an integrative analysis of Helicopsychidae biodiversity in the New World (NW), examining their distribution patterns, environmental gradients, biodiversity hotspots, and biodiversity knowledge shortfalls. We estimated species richness, delineated potential distribution, and identified areas of priority for research/conservation efforts. Our estimates indicate that up to 75% of NW Helicopsychidae species remain undescribed, with a notable Linnean shortfall at the subgenus level: approximately 50% of H. (Cochliopsyche) species and up to 77% of H. (Feropsyche) species are yet to be described. Knowledge of semaphoronts is also limited, with immature stages documented for only 15% of H. (Feropsyche) species and 6% of H. (Cochliopsyche).