A new unexpected species of Chrysopa Leach from Cyprus with biogeographic remarks (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)

Cyprus is rich in endemics; however, all but two lacewing species are shared with the mainland. Thus, the discovery of a new morphologically distinct species of chrysopid belonging to the extensively studied genus Chrysopa, Chrysopa niki n. sp., appears remarkable. While most Chrysopa species differ in relatively subtle morphological characters, the new taxon is set apart from all Western Palaearctic congeners due to a unique combination of pattern, venational, leg and genital characters. The characteristics of C. niki n. sp. suggest that it might be an endemic to Cyprus, not strictly related to other congeners, underlining the importance of the discovery. The biogeography of Cypriot Neuroptera is discussed in light of this new finding.