AbstractThe phylogeny of the genusRivelliaRobineau‐Desvoidy was inferred from mitochondrial 16S ribosomal (r)DNA gene sequences of 13 KoreanRivelliaspecies and six species representing other platystomatid genera and the family Tephritidae. We compared the inferred molecular phylogeny with the previously published morphological cladogram. As a result, the following phylogenetic relationships were recognized: (i) monophyly of the genusRivellia; (ii) monophyly of theR. syngenesiaespecies group; (iii)R. depictaandR. apicalis(which were not previously placed in any species group) were recognized as a sister group of theR. syngenesiaespecies group; and (iv) monophyly of theR. basilarisspecies group was recognized to a limited extent. These results, even though geographically limited, provide a new insight into the phylogeny of the genusRivellia. They clearly show the utility of 16S rDNA for phylogenetic analysis of the genusRivellia. Additional study involving samples from different geographical areas will be needed to gain a better understanding of the adaptive radiation of this species‐rich genus.