The need for an accurate knowledge of global biodiversity is higher than ever not only because of answers needed to major scientific issues, but also because the looming extinction crisis calls for new rigors and approaches in conservation programs. Ongoing research on European butterflies allowed the detection of unexpected genetic patterns, suggesting unknown levels of biological complexity that require further studies. We present two striking examples of cryptic diversity in European butterflies (Leptidea and Spialia genera). Leptidea is also a genus with pronounced karyotype instability and Leptidea sinapis is currently the metazoan with the highest intraspecific chromosome number variability unrelated to polyploidy (2n = 56 to 2n = 110). We tested the role of chromosomal rearrangements in speciation and the concept of clinal species by mating extreme chromosomal races based on laboratory lines. Within the genus Spialia, recent research based on multiple sources of data suggests the presence of a new cryptic species that has likely speciated through a shift in larval host-plant. This species is apparently endemic to Iberia and its detailed distribution, as well as conservation status, requires immediate investigations. Leptidea and Spialia represent exciting systems that improve our understanding of fundamental evolutionary processes. They also exemplify the challenges that lie ahead when documenting biodiversity, as well as implications for nature conservation.

Dincă, Vlad et al.-- Trabajo presentado en el International Symposium Future 4 butterflies in Europe, Dutch Butterfly Conservation (De Vlinderstichting), celebrado en Wageningen del 31 de marzo al 2 de abril de 2016.

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