Phylogenetic relationships and subgeneric classification of European species (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Aphidiinae).

In this study two molecular markers were used to establish taxonomic status and phylogenetic relationships of subgenera and species distributed in Europe. Fifteen of the nineteen currently known species have been analysed, representing three subgenera: Gärdenfors, 1986, Starý, 1958 and Haliday, 1833. The results of analysis of COI and EF1α molecular markers and morphological studies did not support this classification. Three clades separated by the highest genetic distances reported for the subfamily Aphidiinae on intrageneric level. is separated from and species groups with genetic distances of 19.6 % and 16.3 % respectively, while the distance between and groups was 20.7 %. These results lead to the conclusion that the traditional subgeneric classification of needs revision. Species from species group are raised to subgenus level as Chen, 1986 and is assigned as a junior synonym of subgenus Ephedrus. Key for identification of subgenera is provided. Kocić & Tomanović is described and several species are confirmed as valid species for the first time. Furthermore, two species are synonymised: as a junior synonym of and as a junior synonym of .