The internal genitalia as a taxonomic tool: description of the relict endemic moth, <i>Coranarta restricta</i> sp. n., from the Iberian Peninsula (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Hadeninae)

A comparative study of the internal genitalia and examination of ecological preferences show that the Iberian populations formerly referred to as Coranarta cordigera (Thunberg, 1788) should be recognised as a distinct species, Coranarta restricta sp. n. Because of its rarity, extremely local distribution, and endemic and relict character, it should be regarded as an endangered species and its potential as a flagship species in conservation programmes is addressed. The phylogenetic and zoogeographical relationships among the species of Coranarta are outlined. The utility of structural matching of internal genitalia in conspecific males and females as a taxonomic tool is discussed, together with the main hypotheses of the evolutionary significance of internal genital differentiation in allopatric species.