DNA Barcoding reveals new insights into the saproxylic Tineidae Latreille, 1810 of Italy

Representatives of various insect orders exhibit saproxylic habits. Although Lepidoptera are predominantly associated with live plants, several species from the family Tineidae Latreille, 1810 are considered saproxylic, with larvae feeding on fungi, lichens, detritus, and decaying organic matter. Saproxylic Tineidae remain poorly studied due to the taxonomic challenges which has limited their use as bioindicators in forest ecosystems. This study aimed to overcome the taxonomic impediment by improving molecular libraries of Italian Tineidae using DNA barcoding, and to enhance the knowledge of saproxylic species. A total of 85 specimens were barcoded, yielding 74 sequences and 27 Barcode Index Numbers (BINs), including 3 new to the Barcode of Life Data System. Among the 24 identified species, 67% represent new records at regional or national levels. Notably, Pelecystola fraudulentella (Zeller, 1852) is new for Italy, while five species are newly recorded for southern Italy. Furthermore, Monopis neglecta Šumpich & Liška, 2011 was collected in two different forests of the Pollino massif, suggesting that it is relatively common in the southern Italian mountains. Eight specimens belonging to the genera Nemapogon Schrank, 1802 and Neurothaumasia Le Marchand, 1934 showed significant genetic divergence from their closest relatives, suggesting the need for further taxonomic investigations. The results underline the potential of DNA barcoding in resolving taxonomic uncertainties, revealing cryptic diversity, and improving species identification in groups that are often overlooked. This study provides essential data for biodiversity monitoring and highlights the need to integrate molecular tools into conservation planning for the study of saproxylic Lepidoptera communities.