ABSTRACT. The true identity of Anopheles sinensis is established by the designation and description of a lectotype. The status of An. Lesteri and other cryptic species hidden under the same name "sinensis" in China, is summarized. The confusion produced by these cryptic species, in regard to our understanding of the vector capabilities of sinensis, is also discussed. Characters are noted that can be used to separate lesteri from sinensis, and lesteri is recorded from the Ryukyu Islands for the first time. Recommendations are made for priority studies that are needed to help clarify our understanding of sinensis in the Orient.