Taxonomy of new a jumping plant lice, Trioza funtamae sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), associated with Funtamia elastica (Apocynaceae) in Cameroon

Jumping plant lice are phytophagous insects which induce damage to their host plants. The biodiversity of Cameroonian psyllid fauna is important but many species remain unknown. Funtumia elastica is a valuable timber tree, which has medicinal and economical importance in Africa particularly in Cameroon. The aim of this work is the description and identification of the psyllid associated with Funtumia elastica in Cameroon, and thus contribute to the psyllid biodiversity study in Cameroonian fauna. The study was carried out in different localities of Cameroon (IRAD station Nkoemvone, Ebolowa, Soa) from January 2006 to December 2020. Psyllids feeding on the host plant Funtumia elastica, were captured with a sweep net of 0.5 mm mesh size and an aspirator. Drawings and measurements were made from slide-mounted material. The psyllid of Funtumia elactica , Trioza funtumae sp nov., is characterized by: a stage V larva, the humeral lobe extends above the eyes; circular tarsal arolium; the circumanal in the shape of a circle arch, with a single row of pores and bulging at both ends; adults, the hindwing bears sixteen simple setae on the costal and sub-costal veins; the metatibia has 4 apical spurs; the base of the metatibia is devoid of spines; the paramere slightly tubular-shaped with its narrowed and curved apical third; the distal portion of the aedeagus in the shape of a tablespoon; the apex of the ventral valve, rounded and pointed.
Comparing Trioza funtumae with the specimens recorded previously elsewhere, it is morphologically different from them and can be reported as a new specie in the Trioza genus.
Keywords: Identification, Triozidae, psyllid, Apocynaceae, precious wood.