[PaleoOrnithology • 2026] Meterchen luti • A Review of Fossil Goose (Anseriformes: Anserinae) Records from the Miocene St Bathans deposits, New Zealand, with the Description of A New Species

 

 Meterchen luti 

Tennyson, Steell, Lubbe, Adams, Greer, Brown, Wilson, Campbell, Dale & Rawlence, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/08912963.2025.2601236  

  x.com/nic_rawlence_nz

Artwork by Sasha Votyakova

ABSTRACT

The early-middle Miocene deposits of St Bathans, New Zealand, are renowned for their diverse and internationally important avian fossil biota that includes an abundance of fragmentary yet recognisable fossils from the crown bird clade Anseriformes (ducks and geese). We reviewed the taxonomic status of 11 isolated fossil bones previously referred to geese (Anserinae, Anseriformes) from St Bathans. Rigorous reassessment of these specimens using an expanded comparative morphological dataset demonstrated that four specimens can be assigned to the tadornine Miotadorna sanctibathansi and five are probably from a large anatid, potentially the purported anserine Notochen bannockburnensis. A second, slightly smaller, probable anserine is represented by one or possibly two bones, which we name as a new species, Meterchen luti gen. et sp. nov. We did not find any bones that showed a clear affinity with cereopsine anserines, thereby contradicting a previous hypothesis that cereopsines have a long history in Zealandia dating back to at least the early-middle Miocene. Our findings are consistent with current molecular divergence time estimates suggesting that the ancestors of the recently extinct cereopsine Cnemiornis arrived in Zealandia in the late Miocene.

 

KEYWORDS: Altonian, Anseriformes, Bannockburn Formation, Burdigalian, Otago

An artist’s impression of the St Bathans goose Meterchen luti that once lived in New Zealand.

Artwork by Sasha Votyakova/Te Papa Tongarewa, CC BY-NC-SA  

 Meterchen luti gen. et sp. nov. 

Alan J. D. Tennyson, Elizabeth M. Steell, Pascale Lubbe, Amy L. Adams, Liam Greer, Alex H. Brown, Laura J. E. Wilson, Timothy C. Campbell, Tobia C. Dale and  Nicolas J. Rawlence. 2026. A Review of Fossil Goose (Aves: Anserinae) Records from the Miocene St Bathans deposits, New Zealand, with the Description of A New Species. Historical Biology: An International Journal of Paleobiology. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/08912963.2025.2601236 [17 Feb 2026]

  x.com/nic_rawlence_nz/status/2028221769396691195

[Crustacea • 2025] Trichocallia delicatula • A New Genus and Species of the Ghost-shrimp Family Callianideidae (Decapoda: Axiidea) from the Caribbean coast of Panama

Trichocallia delicatula   

Anker, 2025 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11606/1807-0205/2025.65.009

Abstract   

A peculiar new species of ghost-shrimp from Bocas del Toro Archipelago on the Caribbean coast of Panama is assigned to the genus Trichocallia gen. nov. in the family Callianideidae. The holotype and presently the only known specimen of Trichocallia delicatula sp. nov. was collected with a suction pump on a silty-muddy bottom under a network of decomposing and partly overgrown mangrove roots. The new genus appears to be most closely related to Callianidea H. Milne Edwards, 1837, with two species in the Indo-West Pacific, and Paracallianidea Sakai, 1992, with two species, one in the western Atlantic and one in the eastern Pacific.

Keywords: Malacostraca, Decapod crustacean, New taxon, Caribbean Sea, West Atlantic, Marine biodiversity

Trichocallia gen. nov.  

 Trichocallia delicatula sp. nov. 

Arthur Anker. 2025. A New Genus and Species of the Ghost-shrimp Family Callianideidae from the Caribbean coast of Panama (Decapoda: Axiidea). Papéis Avulsos De Zoologia. 65; e202565009.  DOI: doi.org/10.11606/1807-0205/2025.65.009

[Botany • 2026] Homalomena lingua-felis (Araceae: Philodendreae) • A New densely-haired aroid Species of Homalomena from North Sumatra, Indonesia

 

Homalomena lingua-felis A.S.D.Irsyam, Raynalta & M.R.Hariri, 

in Muzzazinah, Damayanti, Fadhil, Raynalta, Husaini, Rivai, Setiawan, Irsyam, Rosleine, Pratami, Hariri et Ariati, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.271.172410

Abstract

Homalomena lingua-felis is newly described from Tapanuli (North Sumatra Province, Indonesia). This species resembles H. pexa from which can be easily distinguished by its shorter petiole (2.0–4.5 cm vs. 7.0–12 cm), papillate petiole (vs. densely white-tomentose), elliptic or cordate to ovate leaf shape (vs. oblong- to ovate-cordiform), papillate abaxial leaf surface (vs. sparsely hairy), papillate veins (vs. tomentose), papillate peduncle and spathe (vs. tomentose), pendulous peduncle (vs. semi-erect to declinate), and conical staminate flower zone (vs. ellipsoid). This novelty represents a continuation of discoveries on hairy Homalomena in Sumatra.

Key words: Araceae, Chamaecladon, Indonesia, Malesia, Philodendreae

Homalomena lingua-felis A.S.D.Irsyam, Raynalta & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.
A. Habit; B. Adaxial surface of leaf showing dense hairs; C. Bulbous hair in adaxial leaf surface (59.4×); D. Papillose abaxial leaf surface (59.4×); E. Pendulous synflorescence; F. Bloom at late staminate anthesis with half and full spathe artificially removed; G. Bloom at late pistillate anthesis with half spathe artificially removed (20.7×).

Photos by Erick Raynalta (A, B, E) and Muhammad Rifqi Hariri (C, D, F, G).

Homalomena lingua-felis A.S.D.Irsyam, Raynalta & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Homalomena lingua-felis is similar to H. pexa but differs by having shorter petiole (2.0–4.5 cm vs. 7.0–12 cm), papillate petiole (vs. densely white-tomentose), elliptic or cordate to ovate leaf shape (vs. oblong- to ovate-cordiform), papillate abaxial leaf surface (vs. sparsely hairy), papillate veins (vs. tomentose), papillate peduncle and spathe (vs. tomentose), pendulous peduncle (vs. semi-erect to declinate), and conical staminate flower zone (vs. ellipsoid).

Etymology. The specific epithet lingua-felis is derived from the Latin lingua (tongue) and feles (cat), in reference to the characteristic texture of the leaf surface, which bears a resemblance to the rough surface of a feline tongue.

 Muzzazinah, Inggar Damayanti, Muhammad Hisyam Fadhil, Erick Raynalta, Iin Pertiwi Amin Husaini, Reza Ramdan Rivai, Ade Agus Setiawan, Arifin Surya Dwipa Irsyam, Dian Rosleine, Mentari Putri Pratami, Muhammad Rifqi Hariri and Siti Roosita Ariati. 2026. A New densely-haired aroid Species of Homalomena (Araceae) from North Sumatra, Indonesia. PhytoKeys. 271: 161-172. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.271.172410 [02 Mar 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Monotropa callistoma (Ericaceae) • A New Species based on morphological and molecular evidence from Hunan, China

Monotropa callistoma  Ze Wei, Li J.Liu & Bing Liu,

in Wei, L.-J. Liu, Xuan, Mo, Yang, B. Liu, Li et Wang, 2026. 

美冠水晶兰  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.271.177609

Abstract

The subfamily Monotropoideae (Ericaceae) comprises unique non-photosynthetic and mycoheterotrophic plants. Their extensive morphological reduction often poses significant challenges for species delimitation. In this study, we investigated an unknown Monotropa taxon collected from Hunan Province, China, through an integrative approach combining detailed morphological observation and phylogenetic analysis. We sequenced it, assembled the complete plastid genome and reconstructed phylogenetic trees using both chloroplast genomes and the nrITS region. Morphologically, this new entity is readily distinguished from its congener, Monotropa uniflora, by several key characteristics: 4–5 glabrous petals apically one-quarter orange and basally three-quarters white, 8–10 stamens with glabrous filaments, a nodding berry at maturity and a distinctly earlier flowering period (March–June vs. June–October). Phylogenetic reconstructions, based on both chloroplast genomes and nrITS data, consistently resolved this unknown taxon as a distinct lineage, clearly separating it from M. uniflora with strong support. Integrating evidence from morphology, phylogeny and phenology, we hereby describe it as a new species, Monotropa callistoma.

Key words: Ericaceae, Monotropa, morphology, new species, phylogeny, taxonomy

Morphology of Monotropa callistoma. A. Flower; B. Flowering plant showing scale-like leaves; C. Petals; D. Stamens; E. Transverse section of the ovary; F, G. Baccate fruit (berry) and its transverse section showing the parietal placentation; H. Mycorrhiza.

B–E. Photographed by Zi Wang and others photographed by Ze Wei.

Monotropa callistoma sp. nov.
A. Habitat and flowering plant; B. Flower, viewed from the top; C. Sepal; D. Petal; E. Stamen; F. Pistil; G. Berry; H. Transverse section of the berry fruit showing the parietal placentation; I. Mycorrhiza.

Drawn by Yi F. Li.

Monotropa callistoma Ze Wei, Li J.Liu & Bing Liu, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Monotropa callistoma is characterised by its 4 or 5 glabrous petals (apically orange and basally white), 8–10 stamens with glabrous filaments, flowering period starting from March and nodding capsule at maturity. It is morphologically most similar to M. uniflora and Monotropastrum humile, but differs by the characters summarised in Table 2.

Etymology. The specific epithet callistoma is derived from the Greek calli- (beautiful) and -stoma (mouth), alluding to the aesthetically pleasing form and colouration of the corolla orifice.

Vernacular name. (Chinese name). 美冠水晶兰 (měi guān shuǐ jīng lán).

Habitat and flowering habit of Monotropa callistoma.

 Photographed by Ze Wei.

 Ze Wei, Li-Jia Liu, Jing Xuan, Zhi-Qiong Mo, Wen-Xiang Ou Yang, Bing Liu, Min Li and Qiang Wang. 2026. Monotropa callistoma (Ericaceae), A New Species based on morphological and molecular evidence from Hunan, China. PhytoKeys. 271: 145-160. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.271.177609 [27 Feb. 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Axinaea filandiensis (Melastomataceae: Merianieae) • A New Species from Colombia, and Comments on the Circumscription of Axinaea and groups in Meriania

 Axinaea filandiensis Humberto Mend. & W. Vargas,  

  

 in Mendoza Cifuentes et Vargas, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.21829/abm132.2025.2421 

Abstract

Background and Aims: Axinaea is a predominantly Andean genus, with one species found in the mountains of Costa Rica and Panama. It is similar to Meriania, and the only feature that separates them from each other is the shape of the dorsal connective of the anther. The discovery of a new species, described here, with anther connective characters intermediate between the two genera, raised the need to improve the circumscription of Axinaea and document variation within Meriania, aspects that are addressed in this paper.

Methods: A new species of Axinaea is described from collections deposited in the UDBC herbarium of the Distrital University of Bogotá. The degree of threat is evaluated and the need for conserving the species is described. In addition, various groups within Meriania, including Axinaea, are summarized, and a unique set of characters for Axinaea is proposed.

Key results: Axinaea filandiensis sp. nov. is characterized by its 4-merous flowers, isomorphous stamens with blue anthers and globose-ellipsoid dorsal connectives. It is known only from the type locality and its conservation status is proposed as Critically Endangered (CR). Seven groups are described in Meriania, including Axinaea, and a unique set of characters is proposed for the latter genus, considering non-nectariferous flowers, cucullate corolla, isomorphic or slightly dimorphic stamens, anthers with the vascular bundle of the connective tissue directed backwards, and inappendiculate and globose to globose-elliptic connective. According to this circumscription, one species described in Meriania (M. rubrifolia) establishes its position within Axinaea.

Conclusions: Axinaea filandiensis represents a critically endangered species that requires urgent conservation action. The unique set of characters established in this paper clarifies the separation between Axinaea and Meriania. It is proposed to maintain both genera separate, considering that Meriania is an artificial group that should be split into several genera.

Keywords: Andes, stamens, sub-Andean forest, taxonomy

Living plants of Axinaea filandiensis Humberto Mend. & W. Vargas.
A. flowering branch; B. detail of stem and inflorescence; C. floral buds; D. open flower.

Photos from Vargas 17591 (UDBC)

 

Humberto Mendoza Cifuentes and William G. Vargas. 2025. Axinaea filandiensis (Melastomataceae, Merianieae), A New Species from Colombia, and Comments on the Circumscription of Axinaea and groups in Meriania. Acta Botanica Mexicana. (132); DOI: doi.org/10.21829/abm132.2025.2421 

 

[Herpetology • 2026] Achalinus mirabilis • Taxonomic Reassessment of Achalinus jinggangensis (Zong & Ma, 1983) (Serpentes: Xenodermidae), with Description of A New Species from Zhejiang Province, China

Achalinus mirabilis Xu, Hu, Qi, Zhang, Zhou, Xu, Wang & Peng,   

in Y. Xu, Hu, Qi, Ma, Chen, T. Zhang, Y. Zhang, Sun, Zhou, J. Xu, Wang et Peng. 2026. 

Kuocang Moutain odd-scaled snake | 括苍山脊蛇  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.183453 

Abstract

The taxonomy of Achalinus jinggangensis has long remained unclear due to limited sampling and the consequent lack of publicly available molecular and distributional data. Here, we re-evaluate the taxonomic status of A. jinggangensis using an integrative approach that combines molecular phylogenetic analyses, detailed morphological comparisons, and direct examination of type material, and provide a comprehensive redescription of this species. In addition, we describe an unexpected new species from Kuocang Mountain, Linhai City, Zhejiang Province, China, Achalinus mirabilis sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that Achalinus mirabilis sp. nov. appears to be most closely related to A. jinggangensis, although this relationship is not statistically supported, and exhibits substantial genetic divergence, as indicated by uncorrected p-distances of 9.5%–10.9% in the CO1 gene fragment. Morphologically, the new species is readily distinguished from A. jinggangensis by its distinctly keeled outermost dorsal scale row, a higher number of ventral scales in both sexes, and conspicuous differences in coloration. Our results highlight previously underestimated species diversity within Achalinus and refine the current understanding of its taxonomy. This study increases the number of recognized species in the genus Achalinus to 30, and underscores the importance of integrative approaches in resolving cryptic diversity and taxonomic complexity within the genus.

Key Words: Achalinus mirabilis sp. nov., Kuocang Mountain, molecular phylogeny, morphological characters, taxonomy

Coloration of the holotype of Achalinus mirabilis sp. nov. in life (QHU R2025051, adult female).
A. Dorsolateral view; B. Ventral view of the body. Photographs by J.H. Hu.

Achalinus mirabilis Xu, Hu, Qi, Zhang, Zhou, Xu, Wang & Peng, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The new species Achalinus mirabilis sp. nov. is distinguished from all of its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) size medium, with a maximum SVL of 270 mm in males and 332 mm in females; (2) tail relatively short, TAL/TL ratio 0.22 in males and 0.17–0.18 in females; (3) loreal scale absent; (4) length of suture between internasals substantially longer than that between prefrontals, LSBI/LSBP ratio 1.60–3.35; (5) dorsal scales strongly keeled, arranged in 23 rows throughout the body, with the outermost row also strongly keeled and substantially enlarged; (6) infralabials 6, with the anterior three or four in contact with the first pair of chin shields; (7) two pairs of chin shields; (8) maxillary teeth 27 based on the only counted female specimen; (8) ventral scales 163–166 in males and 174–178 in females; (9) subcaudals 64–68 in males and 53–56 in females, not paired; (10) in life, the dorsum is brown to dark brown with a slight metallic sheen, and the venter is uniformly light brown.

Etymology. The specific epithet mirabilis represents a Latin adjective in nominative singular, meaning “marvelous” or “remarkable”, and is given in reference to the distinctive morphology of this species within the genus Achalinus. In addition, the discovery of a previously unrecorded new species in Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, a highly urbanized and economically developed region, was also unexpected. Based on its known distribution, Kuocang Mountain (Kuocangshan) in Linhai City, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, we propose the Chinese common name “括苍山脊蛇” (Kuò Cāng Shān Jǐ Shé) and the English common name “Kuocang Moutain odd-scaled snake”.

Live or fresh specimens of paratypes of Achalinus mirabilis sp. nov.
A. SMNH 20250126, subadult male; B. QHU R2025053, adult male;
C. QHU R2025054, adult female; D. SYS r003125, adult female.

Photographs by J.H. Hu (A–C) and H.J. Chen (D).

 Yuhao Xu, Jiahao Hu, Shuo Qi, Shun Ma, Haojun Chen, Tierui Zhang, Yunfei Zhang, Fanyue Sun, Jiajun Zhou, Jinan Xu, Yingyong Wang, Lifang Peng. 2026. Taxonomic Reassessment of Achalinus jinggangensis (Zong & Ma, 1983) (Serpentes, Xenodermidae), with Description of A New Species from Zhejiang Province, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(2): 387-409. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.183453 

[Entomology • 2025] Bucerocaputis kapinawa & B. timbira • Bucerocaputis gen. nov. (Coleoptera: Ciidae) from the Cerrado and Caatinga of Brazil, with the Description of Two New Species

 

Bucerocaputis kapinawa Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, 

in Souza-Gonçalves, Lopes-Andrade et Grossi, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/aen.70025

Abstract

Bucerocaputis Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, gen. nov., a new genus with two species, Bucerocaputis kapinawa Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, gen. et sp. nov. from the Caatinga biome and Bucerocaputis timbira Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, gen. et sp. nov. from the Cerrado biome, is described based on individuals collected in the states of Bahia, Maranhão, Pernambuco and Rio Grande do Norte, Northeast Region of Brazil. The genus shares some morphological affinities with members of Acanthocis Miyatake, 1954, Falsocis Pic, 1916, Plesiocis Casey, 1898, Porculus Lawrence, 1987 and Pseudeuxestocis Lawrence 2016; however, it can be distinguished mainly by the combination of the following features: the robust body; single pronotal and elytral punctation; antennae with 10 antennomeres; apical maxillary palpomere inflated with a large circular sensory area at the apex; prosternum biconcave with a relatively broad, strongly curved prosternal process, projecting below the plane of the prosternum disc; and male anterocephalic and anterior pronotal edge quadridentate. We also provide information on its host fungi and briefly discuss its geographical distribution.

Keywords: Caatinga, Cerrado, Ciinae, Neotropical, taxonomy, Tenebrionoidea

Bucerocaputis kapinawa Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade gen. et sp. nov., holotype male (e–e) from Sairé (Pernambuco, Brazil).
(a) Dorsal view; note the lateral pronotal projections (arrows). (b) Lateral view. (e) Ventral view. (d) Frontal–ventral view of head and thorax note the lateral pronotal projections (arrows). (e) Scutellar shield and part of the pronotum and elytra.

Scale bars: 1.0 mm (a–c); 0.5 (d); 0.2 mm (e).

Bucerocaputis Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, gen. nov. 

Bucerocaputis kapinawa Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, gen. et sp. nov.  

 Bucerocaputis timbira Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, gen. et sp. nov. 

Igor Souza-Gonçalves, Cristiano Lopes-Andrade and Paschoal C. Grossi. 2025. Bucerocaputis gen. nov. (Coleoptera: Ciidae) from the Cerrado and Caatinga of Brazil, with the Description of Two New Species. Austral Entomology. 64(4); e70025. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/aen.70025 [06 October 2025]

[Botany • 2026] Peliosanthes siamensis (Asparagaceae) • A New Species from northern Thailand

Peliosanthes siamensis Thammar. & Rakarcha, 

in Thammarong, La-ongsri, Tanming et Rakarcha. 2026. 

นางแลวสยาม  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.1.02 

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Abstract 

Peliosanthes siamensis (Asparagaceae) is described from northern Thailand. A description, distribution, ecology, phenology, notes and illustration are provided. A provisional conservation status of the species in Thailand is also given.

 Keywords: conservation status, flora, limestone, threatened plant

Peliosanthes siamensis Thammar. & Rakarcha:
A. Habit; B. Flowers; C. Inflorescence; D. Adaxial leaf surface; E. Abaxial leaf surface.

Photos A–C. by W. Tanming; D–E. by W. Thammarong from Rakarcha et al. 1087 (QBG).

Peliosanthes siamensis Thammar. & Rakarcha sp. nov. 

นางแลวสยาม

Woranart Thammarong, Woranuch La-ongsri, Wattana Tanming and Sarayut Rakarcha. 2026. Peliosanthes siamensis (Asparagaceae), A New Species from northern Thailand. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany). 54(1), 13–17. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.1.02 

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[Fungi • 2024] Mooraboolomyces wintlei (Mucoromycota: Mucoraceae) • A New Genus and Species from Victoria, Australia

  

Mooraboolomyces wintlei  C.P. Hull, A.S. Urquhart & A. Idnurm, 

in Hull, Urquhart et Idnurm. 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.644.1.5 

Researchgate.net/publication/379691732

Abstract

A new genus and species in the Mucoromycota, Mooraboolomyces wintlei, was isolated into culture from leaf litter from a national park in Victoria, Australia, and is described. The strain reproduced asexually to form sporangia and sporangiospores, with no production of zygospores, and sequencing of its genome and analysis supported a heterothallic mode of reproduction. Phylogenetic analyses using five DNA regions placed the strain within the Mucorales and Mucoraceae, clearly distinct from previously described genera. This represents the second genus in this phylum that has been identified from Australia and that is currently unique to this country.

biodiversity, heterothallism, Mucorales, sex locus, zygomycete, Fungi

 Physical properties of Mooraboolomyces wintlei.
A. Photograph of the location from where the species was obtained. B. Petri dish plates (9 cm diameter) from above (top) or below (bottom) after 13 days at 23 °C on PDA. C. Edge of growing culture with the fungus illuminated to show examples of sporangia and spores extending beyond the starting culture to initiate new growth to account for the images in B. D. Two sporangia. E. Scanning electron microscopy of the spores in a sporangium. F. Columella, featuring the dark structure at its base. G. Asexual spores. Scale bars: C = 1 cm, D = 40 µm, E = 6 µm, F, G = 10 µm.

CAITLIN P. Hull, ANDREW S. Urquhart and ALEXANDER Idnurm. 2024. Mooraboolomyces wintlei gen. & sp. nov. from Victoria, Australia.  Phytotaxa. 644(1); 35-41. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.644.1.5 [2024-04-09]

 Researchgate.net/publication/379691732_Mooraboolomyces_wintlei_gen_sp_nov_from_Victoria_Australia

[Botany • 2024] Salvia tainingensis (Lamiaceae) • A neglected New Species from Fujian Province, China

 

Salvia tainingensis  Y.L.Gao, D.Xie & Z.L.Ning, 

in Xie, M.-H. Zhang, Dong, Gao, D.-G. Zhang et Ning,  2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.669.2.7 

 Researchgate.net/publication/385106152 

 

Abstract

A species could not be known to the world of science if it not be discovered and described, considerable number of new species are neglected due to the plant itself and some other external restricted factors. On the basis of morphological and molecular evidences, a new species previously identified as Salvia scapiformis is now described and illustrated as Salvia tainingensis, named after Taining County in Fujian Province, where it was discovered. S. tainingensis does not closely resemble S. scapiformis, but is more similar to Salvia glabrifolia and Salvia daiguii, which were once identified as S. scapiformis, in terms of leaf shape, apex, base, corolla color, and connective length. However, it can be easily distinguished from the latter two by its thinly leathery leaves, serrate leaf margins, densely villous or glabrescent leaf abaxial, and the X-shaped arrangement of connective and filament.

molecular phylogeny, new taxon, Salvia, taxonomy, Eudicots, Flora of Fujian

  Image of living plants of Salvia tainingensis.
A, B, C Habitat D Individual E, F Inflorescence G-J Flower K Connective and filament L Calyx M Bract N Leaves

Salvia tainingensis Y.L.Gao, D.Xie & Z.L.Ning

DAN XIE, MENG-HUA ZHANG, SHU-PENG DONG, YUAN-LONG GAO, DAI-GUI ZHANG and ZU-LIN NING. 2024. Salvia tainingensis, A neglected New Species of Lamiaceae from Fujian Province, China. Phytotaxa. 669(2); 150-158. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.669.2.7 [2024-10-22]

http://english.scib.cas.cn/news/202410/t20241029_693026.html

 Researchgate.net/publication/385106152_Salvia_tainingensis_a_new_species_from_Fujian_Province_China

[Botany • 2026] Stigmatodactylus antennatus (Orchidaceae) • A New Species from West Papua Province, Indonesia, and the Rediscovery and Reinterpretation of S. gibbsiae

 Stigmatodactylus antennatus Schuit., Saputra & Wanma,

in Schuiteman, Saputra, Wanma et Heatubun, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15040589  

 facebook.com/Rezamonium 

Abstract

Two species of Stigmatodactylus have recently been observed in the Arfak Mountains of West Papua Province, Indonesian New Guinea. One of these is clearly undescribed and is here described as Stigmatodactylus antennatus Schuit., Saputra & Wanma, a species uniquely characterised by the presence of a pair of antennae on the lip. The other is believed to be S. gibbsiae (Kores) Kores. This species was only known from the type material collected in the Arfak Mountains more than a century ago, in 1913. There are, however, significant discrepancies between the protologue and the material recently found. We interpret these discrepancies as misinterpretations of the poor type material of S. gibbsiae, and provide images based on fresh material. An identification key to the four species of Stigmatodactylus in New Guinea is included.

Keywords: Acianthus; Arfak mountains; identification key; taxonomy

  Stigmatodactylus antennatus. 
 (A) Plant habit; (B) flower; (C) dorsal sepal; (D) lateral sepal; (E) petal; (F) lip; (G) lip callus; (H) column. Drawn after the type material by André Schuiteman.

 Stigmatodactylus antennatus.
(a) In situ, Schuiteman et al. 23-277; (b) inflorescence, Schuiteman et al. 24-102; (c) flower detail showing callus with antennae, Schuiteman et al. 23-277. Photos: André Schuiteman.

  Stigmatodactylus antennatus Schuit., Saputra & Wanma, spec. nov. 

 André Schuiteman, Reza Saputra, Jimmy F. Wanma and Charlie D. Heatubun. 2026. A New Species of Stigmatodactylus (Orchidaceae) from West Papua Province, Indonesia, and the Rediscovery and Reinterpretation of S. gibbsiae. Plants. 15(4), 58. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15040589 [13 February 2026]

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[Ichthyology • 2026] Gitchak nakana • A miniature, subterranean, blind cobitid loach (Cypriniformes: Cobitidae) is the first groundwater-dwelling fish from Northeast India

Gitchak nakana

Britz, Marak, Velentina, Lokeshwor, Raghavan, Pinion & Rüber, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-40425-6  

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Abstract

Subterranean animals are commonly met with considerable fascination, by both laymen and biologists. While most of these animals have been reported from caves, some species have adapted to other underground habitats. One special subterranean aquatic habitat are aquifers, which are home to a number of invertebrates and fishes. Of the more than 300 known subterranean fishes, fewer than 10% have been recovered from aquifers and are encountered only rarely and serendipitously. Here we report the discovery of a tiny, blind loach of the family Cobitidae from a dug-out well in Assam, India, which exhibits a number of characters commonly associated with subterranean life, so-called troglomorphies. This loach, described here as Gitchak nakana, represents a new genus and species, differing from all other genera of cobitids by a number of unique characters. The most unusual among these is the complete lack of a skull roof with the brain covered dorsally only by skin. Gitchak nakana is the first aquifer-dwelling (phreatobitic) fish from Northeast India, and marks the first discovery of a previously unknown subterranean fauna in this part of Asia.

Gitchak nakana. (a) ZSI FF11123, holotype, 20.8 mm SL, in life, sides reversed, showing overall appearance, note presence of large eggs in body cavity and numerous fat globules (reflective spheres) along dorsal midline and postanal ventral midline. (b) same specimen, after preservation. (c) same specimen, µCT-image to illustrate presence of eight large eggs arranged in a longitudinal series. (d) same specimen, in life, actively swimming in the water column; note large yellow eggs and blood red liver. (e) KUFOS2025.F.11.51, non-type, 16.4 mm SL, in life, close-up of lateral head and body; note swimbladder visible through body wall. (f) KUFOS:2025.FT.11.6, paratype, 20.0 mm SL, frontal view of head to illustrate crown of barbels; note large-calibre red blood vessels supplying rostral (rb), maxillary (mxb) and mandibular (mdb) barbels and small-calibre vessels supplying nasal (nb) and tiny mental barbels (marked by arrow).

Taxonomy 

Gitchak, new genus 

Diagnosis. Gitchak is a member of the family Cobitidae as evidenced by (i) the modification of lateral ethmoid into a bifurcated subocular spine, which articulates with the orbitosphenoid, (ii) the reduction of the endopterygoid into a rod-like element, (iii) the absence of contact between orbitosphenoid and pterosphenoid and (iv) the outer arm of the os suspensorium completely surrounding anterior swimbladder chamber.

Etymology. The genus name is derived from the Garo word gitchak, meaning red, alluding to the striking red life colour of this loach. Treated here as a noun in the feminine gender.

Gitchak nakana, new species.

 

Etymology. The specific name is derived from the Garo words na·tok, fish, and kana, blind, referring to the absence of eyes in this species, a noun in apposition.

 

Ralf Britz, Wimarithy K. Marak, Kangjam Velentina, Yumnam Lokeshwor, Rajeev Raghavan, Amanda K. Pinion and Lukas Rüber. 2026. A miniature, subterranean, blind cobitid loach, Gitchak nakana, new genus and species, is the first groundwater-dwelling fish from Northeast India. Scientific Reports. 16: 7746. DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-40425-6 [26 February 2026]

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[Herpetology • 2026] Dibamus irregularis • A New Species of Blind Skink (Squamata: Dibamidae: Dibamus) from Chu Yang Sin National Park, southern Vietnam, with the first description of a Dibamus clutch

 

Dibamus irregularis Kliukin, Poyarkov, Bragin, Krone & Nguyen, 

in Kliukin, Bragin, Nguyen, Vu, Le, Gorin, Krone & Poyarkov, 2026

Chu Yang Sin Blind Skink  |  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.5.1  

Thằn lằn giun Chư Yang Sin  ||  Researchgate.net/publication/401227726  

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Abstract

A new species of dibamid lizard, Dibamus irregularis sp. nov. is described based on molecular (three mitochondrial genes) and morphological (external and skeletal) characters of twelve specimens collected from the Chu Yang Sin National Park, Dak Lak Province, southern Vietnam. The new species can be distinguished from other congeners by the following combination of characters: medial rostral suture absent or incomplete, nasal sutures incomplete, labial sutures complete or incomplete; two to three postoculars; three to four scales on the posterior edge of infralabial; 22–24 midbody scale rows; 180–211 ventral scales; 39–46 subcaudal scales; and maximum snout-vent length 147 mm. Moreover, two eggs of a new species were collected in the same locality. The only known clutch of Dibamus was described more than 120 years ago based on a single egg of D. alfredi collected from Bukit Besar, Thailand. Herein, we provide the first description of a complete clutch of the genus Dibamus based on two eggs of Dibamus irregularis sp. nov. Our study brings the total number of species in the genus Dibamus to 30; Dibamus irregularis sp. nov. is the 10th species of Dibamus recorded from Vietnam, highlighting the importance of the country as a hot spot of reptilian diversity in Southeast Asia.

Reptilia, Dibamus irregularis sp. nov., Dak Lak Province, conservation, Southeast Asia, systematics, morphology, reproduction

 Dibamus irregularis sp. nov. in life.
(A) holotype ZMMu re-18313, male; (B) Paratype ZMMu re-18315, female.

Photographs by Andrey M. Bragin

Dibamus irregularis sp. nov.

Kliukin, Poyarkov, Bragin, Krone & Nguyen

Etymology. the new species epithet is a latin adjective in nominative singular, meaning “irregular,” andis given in reference to the high intraspecific variability of external morphological features in the new species,especially to the irregularity and asymmetry of the number of postocular scales (Fig. 6). Since Allen greer’s revision(greer 1985) and in all subsequent papers describing new species of Dibamus, the number of postocular scales wasconsidered as a relatively stable diagnostic character underlying diagnoses for new species of dibamids, which in partcould be explained by generally small sample sizes of Dibamus spp. available for examination. however, Dibamus irregularis sp. nov. demonstrates an unexpectedly irregular and asymmetrical number of postocular scales: fivespecimens have two postoculars, four specimens have three postoculars, and three specimens have two postocularson the left side and three on the right side of the head.

Suggested common names: Chu Yang Sin Blind Skink (English); Thằn lằn giun Chư Yang Sin (Vietnamese),Chuyangsinskaya cherveobraznaya yascheritsa (Чуянгсинская червеобразная ящерица, Russian).  

Nikita S. KLIUKIN, Andrey M. BRAGIN, Tan Van NGUYEN, Duy Dinh VU, Son Xuan LE, Vladislav A. GORIN, Isaac W. KRONE, Nikolay A. POYARKOV. 2026. A New Species of Blind Skink (Squamata: Dibamidae: Dibamus) from Chu Yang Sin National Park, southern Vietnam, with the first description of a Dibamus clutch.  Zootaxa. 5760(5); 501-528. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.5.1 [2026-02-26] 

 Researchgate.net/publication/401227726_A_new_species_of_Dibamus_from_ChuYangSin_NP_southern_Vietnam 

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