Valentina aline gen. nov., sp. nov., a new genus and species of cave-associated Emesinae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae) from Brazil

A new cave-associated genus and species of Emesinae, Valentina aline gen. nov., sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae), is described from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, based on four males and six female specimens. In addition to the taxonomic description, we provide ecological notes on the subterranean habitats in which the specimens were recorded.

We further highlight potential conservation concerns affecting these sites, emphasizing the vulnerability of subterranean ecosystems to ongoing anthropogenic pressures.