DECRYPT -Integrating Morphometric and Ecological Niche Analyses to Define Species Boundaries in the planthopper Hyalesthes obsoletus Complex

Project goal:
The aim of the project is to determine whether this seemingly single species actually comprises multiple cryptic species that differ in ecology, behavior, and impact on plants. Understanding these differences is essential for improving modern plant protection strategies and promoting sustainable agriculture.

About the project:
DECRYPT is a scientific research project focused on understanding the complex biology and taxonomy of Hyalesthes obsoletus, an important agricultural pest and vector of stolbur phytoplasma, responsible for major crop losses across Europe. DECRYPT combines modern scientific approaches to provide a comprehensive answer to this question through:

• Geometric Morphometrics (GM) – analysis of subtle morphological differences
• Morpho-Functional Traits (MFT) – study of traits important for feeding and locomotion
• Ecological Niche Analysis (EcoNDiv) – examination of relationships between organisms and their environment (habitat, climate, vegetation)

This integrative approach enables a more precise understanding of the evolution, ecology, and potential spread of this species, while also supporting the development of more efficient and targeted pest management strategies.

BioSense role on the project:
The role of the BioSense Institute in the DECRYPT project is reflected in the application of integrative morphometric and ecological approaches aimed at clarifying taxonomic boundaries within the Hyalesthes obsoletus species complex. Researchers from BioSense will contribute to geometric morphometric analyses, the integration of morphological, ecological, and genetic data, the development of analytical approaches for studying population divergence and potential cryptic speciation, as well as the training of early-career researchers and dissemination of project results through scientific publications.