The discovery of the holotype of 'Ledromorpha planirostris' (Donovan) (Cicadellidae: Ledrinae), with notes on other Australian Auchenorrhyncha species described by Edward Donovan

Evidence is presented to link a Female specimen of 'Ledromorpha planirostris' (Donovan) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Ledrinae) held in the Macleay Museum, University of Sydney, to the original description of 'Fulgora planirostris' by Donovan (1805) despite a difference in sex between the specimen and Donovan's illustranon of the species. Supporting information presented includes evidence that Donovan's illustrations in other insect groups have been shown to have significant errors derived from Donovan's methods of study, evidence that in 1818 Alexander Macleay bought material from the collection of Edward Francillon in whose collection Donovan's type material was originally held and evidence derived from the physical attributes of the specimen itself. On the basis of this evidence, the female specimen of 'L. planirostris' is recognised as the holotype of 'Fulgora planirostris' Donovan. Recognition of the syntypes of 'Cicada pustulata' Donovan and designation of a lectotype is also made. Implications of these discoveries for other Donovan species described from Australia are discussed.