Systematics of the lace bug genus <i>Cottothucha</i> Drake and Poor (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) with description of the first Australian species and its exaggerated nymph

Abstract

The lace bug genus Cottothucha is redescribed. Cottothucha kalathis from Australia is described as new to science. The fifth instar for C. kalathis is described and illustrated. Cottothucha minor and Cottothucha oceanae are redescribed. The male genitalia of these species are illustrated. The pronotal cyst is compared between the species and its evolution is discussed. The genus is maintained within the lace bug tribe Litadeini based on an enlarged tarsal segment.