Abstract
Besides the pollinators (Agaonidae), several chalcidoid lineages of nonpollinating fig wasps are strictly dependent on Ficus (Moraceae) for reproduction. Overall, nonpollinating fig wasps have not received much consideration. Reliable phylogenetic and taxonomic frameworks are lacking for most groups, which hampers progress in our understanding of the evolution and functioning of fig wasp communities. Here we focus on Anidarnes Boucek (Sycophaginae), a member of the Neotropical fig wasp community. We present a detailed morphological analysis as well as the first molecular phylogeny of the genus inferred from two nuclear and two mitochondrial genes (Cytb, COI, EF-1a and 28S rRNA, 3937 bp). Twelve species are recognised, illustrated and a key to their identification is provided. Of those, only three were previously described and are redescribed here: A. bicolor (Ashmead); A. globiceps (Mayr) and A. brevicauda Boucek. In addition, nine new species are described: Anidarnes breviorsp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Costa Rica); A. dissidenssp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Brazil); A. gracilissp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Costa Rica); A. isophlebiaesp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Costa Rica); A. jimeneziaesp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Costa Rica); A. longiscutellumsp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Brazil); A. martinaesp.n. Farache & Rasplus (U.S.A., Florida); A. nigrussp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Colombia) and A. rugosussp.n. Farache & Rasplus (Brazil). Finally, phylogenetic relationships inferred using parsimony, bayesian and maximum likelihood methods are discussed in the light of our morphological observations and the host fig tree taxonomy.