[Crustacea • 2026] Geosesarma penrissen • A New Species of Vampire Crab of the Genus Geosesarma De Man, 1892 (Brachyura: Sesarmidae) from A montane forest in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

 

Geosesarma penrissen

Grinang, P. Y. C. Ng & P. K. L. Ng, 2026 

 

The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology. 74; 

Abstract 

 A new species of semiterrestrial crab, Geosesarma penrissen, new species, is described herein from Mount Penrissen in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysia. It represents the third species of Geosesarma known from the montane forests of Borneo, the other two being G. larsi Ng & Grinang, 2018 from Mount Ampungan in Serian, Sarawak, and G. aurantium Ng, 1995 from Mount Silam in Sabah. Diagnostic characters distinguishing G. penrissen, new species, from its congeners are provided, together with ecological notes on its highland habitat. 

Key words. freshwater crab, semiterrestrial, taxonomy, lowland forest, comparative morphology

Geosesarma penrissen, new species, live colouration.
A–C, holotype male (10.6 × 10.2 mm) (ZRC 2024.0567); D, paratype male (10.7 × 10.5 mm) (ZRC 2024.0171); E, adult male, on shrub, Batu Panggah trail, photographed 2311 hrs; 6 July 2023 (not collected); F, subadult, on shrub, Batu Panggah trail, photographed 2118 hrs, 6 July 2023 (not collected).

All specimens from Sarawak. E, F, photographed by Chien Lee.

 Geosesarma penrissen, new species

Diagnosis. Carapace almost square, width-to-length ratio 1.01–1.07, lateral margins gently sinuous, subparallel (Figs. 1A, D, 2A–D, 5A, C, F, 6A, D); dorsal surface with welldefined regions, anterior regions covered with small, rounded or flattened, squamate granules (Figs. 1A, C, E, F, 2A–D, 5A, C, E, 6A, D); front deflexed, with 2 broad subtruncate lobes, separated by shallow median concavity; postfrontal, protogastric lobe prominent, sharp-edged (Figs. 1A, C, D, 2A–D, 3A, 6C, F); external orbital tooth acutely triangular, outer margins curving anteriorly, tooth directed obliquely and laterally, clearly extending beyond lateral margin of carapace (Figs. 2A–D, 5A, C, E, 6A, D). Merus of third maxilliped ...

JONGKAR GRINANG, PAUL Y. C. NG and PETER K. L. NG. 2026. A New Species of Vampire Crab of the Genus Geosesarma De Man, 1892 (Crustacea: Brachyura: Sesarmidae) from A montane forest in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology. 74; 457–464.

[Entomology • 2026] Dolichopoda balrogi • Delving too Deep: Morphological and Molecular Description of A New Cave-dwelling Dolichopoda (Orthoptera: Rhaphidophoridae) from Kastellorizo Island, Greece

 

  Dolichopoda balrogi  Kalaentzis & Alexiou, 

 A. Female individual. B. Male individual. C. Juvenile.

in Kalaentzis, Alexiou, Christopoulos, Minoudi, Koutsogiannopoulos, Kotselis et Triantafyllidis, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jor.35.187943

Photos: K. Kalaentzis.

Abstract

A new species of cave cricket, Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov., is described from the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Dodecanese, Levantine Sea). The species is documented from artificial subterranean habitats, as no accessible natural caves are known on the island. Detailed morphological analysis of both sexes reveals a unique combination of characters, including the structure of the male epiphallus, the shape of the tenth tergite, the presence of styli on the male subgenital plate, and the morphology of the female ovipositor, which clearly differentiate it from all known congeners. Comparative morphology indicates strong affinities with Anatolian species of Dolichopoda, particularly D. sbordonii and D. lycia, and no close relationship with the Aegean species complex occurring on islands of East Aegean and the adjacent Anatolian coast. These affinities are further supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses inferred from DNA barcoding. Both Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses consistently recover the Kastellorizo lineage as a distinct and well-supported clade nested within the southwestern Anatolian lineage of the genus. The discovery of D. balrogi sp. nov. represents the first documented occurrence of an Anatolian lineage of Dolichopoda within European territory, underscoring the unique biogeographical character of Kastellorizo as a Greek territory with pronounced Anatolian biogeographical affinities. This finding emphasizes the importance of integrated morphological and molecular approaches in resolving species boundaries and evolutionary relationships and contributes to the growing evidence of underestimated biodiversity in the eastern Mediterranean region.

Keywords: Anatolia, artificial tunnel, DNA barcoding, endemic species, Megisti, molecular phylogeny, new species, subterranean fauna

Individuals of the newly discovered Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov. in the artificial tunnel of Kastellorizo on 17 October 2025.
 A. Female individual. B. Male individual. C. Juvenile.

Photo credit: K. Kalaentzis.

Dolichopoda (Dolichopoda) balrogi Kalaentzis & Alexiou, sp. nov.

Diagnosis.— Because of the unarmed fore and middle femora, the new species described here belongs to the genus Dolichopoda. It is a member of subgenus Dolichopoda because of the absence of spines on all femora, the presence of spines on the fore tibia, and the non-bifurcated median process of the epiphallus. The new species is similar to D. sbordonii, a species endemic to the adjacent Anatolian coast. Both share a non-bilobate median process of epiphallus and the presence of styli at the subgenital plate of the male. The new species differs mainly in the shape of the median process of epiphallus (trapezoidal vs triangular) and the shape of the X tergite of the male (traces of lateral lobes vs lateral lobes). The female of D. sbordonii differs mainly by the shorter ovipositor with smaller number of denticles on the ventral valve. Dolichopoda lycia is a species also present on the adjacent coast. It shares with D. balrogi sp. nov. the shape of the tenth male tergite, with only inconspicuous lateral lobes and a similar ovipositor in females, with 15 denticles on the ventral valve. It differs in the bilobed median process of the epiphallus and the absence of styli.

 Konstantinos Kalaentzis, Sotiris Alexiou, Apostolos Christopoulos, Styliani Minoudi, David Koutsogiannopoulos, Christos Kotselis and Alexandros Triantafyllidis. 2026. Delving too Deep: Morphological and Molecular Description of the Cave-dwelling Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov. (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) from Kastellorizo Island, Greece. Journal of Orthoptera Research. 35(2): 259-266. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jor.35.187943 [27 May 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Impatiens lancifolia (Balsaminaceae) • A New scapigerous Species from the Peak Wilderness [Sri Lankan Balsaminaceae Study I]

Impatiens lancifolia C.Bandara, Atthanagoda & Kariyawasam, 

in Bandara, Atthanagoda, Adhikari et Kariyawasam, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.758.3.6  

 facebook.com: Champika BANDARA  

 

Abstract 

Impatiens lancifolia (Balsaminaceae), a new scapigerous species is described from the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, Central Highlands of Sri Lanka based on the morphological evidence. This new species resembles I. scapiflora and I. acaulis but, differs by having almost glabrous, lanceolate leaves with scattered hairs along the midrib and lateral veins, 2–3 pairs of lateral nerves, reddish stamen apex forming a red colour ring around androecium. A completed description, photographs, illustration and notes on their ecology and distribution are provided.

Balsam hotspot, Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Endemic flora, scapigerous, taxonomy, Eudicots

Impatiens lancifolia C.Bandara, Atthanagoda & Kariyawasam sp. nov.

 

CHAMPIKA BANDARA, ANUSHA GAYAN ATTHANAGODA, HIMASH ADHIKARI and ISURU U. KARIYAWASAM. 2026. Sri Lankan Balsaminaceae Study I: Impatiens lancifolia, A New scapigerous Species from the Peak Wilderness.  Phytotaxa. 758(3); 277-284. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.758.3.6 [2026-05-26]

ශ්‍රී ලංකාවට ආවේණික පළමු හා එකම scapigerous කූඩලු විශේෂය

The first and only scapigerous scapigerous species endemic to Sri Lanka

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[Botany • 2026] Psittacanthus job-kuijtii • Novelties in Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia: A New Species and four new records for the Andean and Amazon Regions

 

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii F.J.Roldán, Carmona & J.S.Murillo,

in Carmona-Gallego, Roldán-Palacio et Murillo-Serna, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.1886910 

 

Abstract

Background and aims – Psittacanthus is the largest genus of neotropical mistletoes within Loranthaceae, comprising approximately 110 species. With 37 species recorded to date, Colombia stands as the most diverse country for this group of aerial hemiparasites. Despite this richness, a comprehensive national or regional taxonomic revision of these mistletoes is currently lacking. This study aims to update the knowledge of Colombian Psittacanthus diversity by describing a new species and reporting new records for the country.

Material and methods – This study is based on an extensive literature review and the examination of herbarium material of Psittacanthus. We examined herbarium specimens using both physical collections and high-resolution digital images. Morphological analyses were conducted using dried and rehydrated samples, following the standardized specialized terminology for neotropical mistletoes. Taxonomic descriptions and diagnoses were developed to establish and test taxonomic hypotheses, ensuring a rigorous comparison between focal taxa and previously described species.

Key results – A new species for the Colombian Andes is described, and four new records for the Amazonian and Andean–Amazonian Piedmont of Colombia are reported. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii sp. nov. is described and illustrated herein; this species inhabits the moist lowland forests of the Colombian inter-Andean valleys, which are areas containing exceptional biodiversity. Furthermore, P. amazonicus, P. lamprophyllus, P. pilanthus, and P. zonatus are recorded for the first time for Colombia. The description of this new species and the additional records increase the known diversity of Colombian Psittacanthus to 41 taxa and a total of 111 species for the genus.

Keywords: Andes, flora of Colombia, mistletoe, Psittacantheae, Santalales, taxonomy

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii.
 A. Habit. B. Flower, showing from bottom to top: the upper portion of the flower pedicel, cupule with bract followed by the ovary and calyculus, petals with their tips recurved at anthesis, and protruding stamens and pistil. C. Detail of vermicular projections on the margin of petal. D. Basal ligule in front view. E. Basal ligule in lateral view.

 Based on the holotype (David et al. 6371, HUA). Illustration by Diego Zapata (HUA).

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii.
 A. Triad of an inflorescence showing basal floral parts (flower pedicels and cupule with bract, ovary, calyculus, and proximal portion of petals). B. Flower buds. C. Flower at anthesis with recurved petals.

Photographs from the holotype (David et al. 6371, HUA) by Esteban Domínguez. 

Figure composition by Diego Zapata (HUA).

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii F.J.Roldán, Carmona & J.S.Murillo, sp nov.

 

Diagnosis. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii differs from the remaining species in the genus by the combination of the following characters: percurrent shoots; leaf blades ovate to broadly lanceolate, base truncate to rounded, margins revolute and adaxially extending toward the petiole, forming a V-shaped projection, apex attenuate to acuminate; inflorescences usually double triads, rarely triple triads, or a monad with two triads (all variations were observed in the holotype); flowers 4–5 cm long in pre-anthesis; petals red to orange in the proximal and medial portions and yellow distally with a deltoid, fleshy basal ligule bearing minute papillae, 1.8–2 mm long; stamens dimorphic, staminal hairs absent. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii is similar to P. peronopetalus, but differs from it by having usually double (rarely triple) triads (vs umbels of four triads), and flowers opening at anthesis with petals recurved for about 2 cm (vs flowers opening only at the apex, with petals recurved for no more than 2 mm).

Isabel Carmona-Gallego, Francisco J. Roldán-Palacio and Jhon S. Murillo-Serna. 2026. Novelties in Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia: A New Species and four new records for the Andean and Amazon Regions. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 159(2): 347-355.  DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.1886910 [2 Jun 2026]

[Ichthyology • 2026] Leptorhamdia kamilai • Phylogenetic Placement and Description of A New Species of Leptorhamdia (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) from the Amazon Basin

Leptorhamdia kamilai

Silva, Reia, Souza, Ywamoto & Oliveira, 2026

 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2025-0037  

 

Abstract

Brachyglaniini is a recently described tribe of Heptapterinae, composed of four genera: Brachyglanis, Gladioglanis, Leptorhamdia, and Myoglanis. Expeditions to the Aripuanã and Tapajós River basins revealed an undescribed species of Brachyglaniini, characterized by a conspicuous light-colored band posterior to the head. Our phylogenetic results provide strong evidence that this new Brachyglaniini species belongs to the genus Leptorhamdia and is closely related to L. marmorata and L. aspredinoides. In addition to the color pattern, the new species can be distinguished from its congeners by having 19-22 anal-fin rays and 47 vertebrae.

Keywords: Brazilian shield; Catfish; Integrative taxonomy; Systematics

 Leptorhamdia kamilai
Left column: holotype, DZSJRP 16293, 92.4 mm SL.
Right column: paratypes, LBP 30639, from top to bottom: 66.3 mm SL; 47.8 mm SL; 31.4 mm SL.

Live specimens of Leptorhamdia kamilai, paratype, LBP 30639, 66.3 mm SL. Photographed by Eric V. Ywamoto. 
 Habitat: rio dos Patos, tributary of the upper Arinos River in Tapajós River basin.

Leptorhamdia kamilai, new species

 Diagnosis. Leptorhamdia kamilai can be readily distinguished among its congeners by having a conspicuous light collar-band, yellowish in live specimens, posterior to the head (vs. coloration uniformly throughout body and head, lacking any distinctive bar). Additionally, L. kamilai differs from its congeners by having 19-22 anal-fin rays (vs. 17 in L. essequibensis; 15 in L. marmorata; 32-35 in L. aspredinoides; 12 in L. nocturna, 15-16 in L. schultzi) and by having 46-47 vertebrae (vs. 45 in L. essequibensis; 43 in L.marmorata; 38 in L. nocturna; 56-57 vertebrae in L. aspredinoides and 43 vertebrae in L. schultzi).

Etymology. The specific name, kamilai, honors our dear friend Dr. Kamila Mayumi Duarte Kuabara, an entomologist and lab manager of the Ornithology Department at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. A noun in a genitive case.

Gabriel de S. C. Silva, Lais Reia, Camila S. Souza, Eric V. Ywamoto and Claudio Oliveira. 2026. Phylogenetic Placement and Description of A New Species of Leptorhamdia (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) from the Amazon Basin. Neotrop. ichthyol. 24 (01); DOI: doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2025-0037  

[Botany • 2026] Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana (Annonaceae) • Phylogenetic and Morphological Evidence supports the Recognition of A New Species from southern Thailand

Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku, 

in Yoosukkee, Damthongdee, Aongyong, Baka, Sama-ae et Chaowasku, 2026. 

รุจิสิริน  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.02  

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Abstract

Based on the molecular phylogenetic analyses of six plastid DNA regions (matK and rbcL exons; trnL intron; atpB-rbcL, psbA-trnH and trnL-trnF intergenic spacers) and including 57 samples of Pseuduvaria, as well as thorough morphological studies, Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana (Annonaceae, Miliuseae) is described and illustrated here as a new species from Narathiwat, southern Thailand. The new species belongs to a major clade that also includes P. fragrans, P. gardneri, P. glossopetala, P. kwangtungensis, P. multiovulata and P. phuyensis. Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana is morphologically most similar to P. glossopetala, but differs by having basally connate (vs. free) sepals, larger petals, elliptic-ovate (vs. obovate) outer petals, inner petals that are only connivent at the apex (vs. connivent from the base to ± the midpoint and at the apex), with openings formed from the base (vs. openings formed from ± the midpoint). Pseuduvaria kwangtungensis turns out to be a putative sister of the new species, but the two are morphologically dissimilar in several traits, such as leaf base, inner petal appearance and glands on the inner side of the inner petals.

Keywords: Magnoliids; Malmeoideae; Miliuseae; Pseuduvaria; Systematics; Taxonomy; Thailand

Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku.
 a. Inflorescences with flowers, from living material of Aongyong & Baka 55.
b. Infructescence with monocarps, from living material of Aongyong & Baka 56.

— Photographs by A. Baka.

 Holotype of Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku (Aongyong & Baka 55, CMUB).

Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku sp. nov. 

 Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana differs from the morphologically most similar species, P. glossopetala, by having basally connate (vs. free) sepals, larger petals, elliptic-ovate (vs. obovate) outer petals, inner petals that are only connivent at the apex (vs. connivent at the apex and from the base to ± the midpoint), with openings formed from the base (vs. openings formed from ± the midpoint). 

Etymology — The specific epithet honours H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, who has continuously supported the study of plant taxonomy in Thailand and worldwide, on the auspicious occasion of her 72nd (6th cycle) birthday anniversary (2 April 2027). She has also been instrumental in establishing the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative (RSPG), which aims to train personnel and develop plant genetic resources for the conservation of plant diversity, with benefits extending to farmers and related sectors of the country.

Vernacular name — Ruchi Sirin (รุจิสิริน).

  C. Yoosukkee, Anissara Damthongdee, Kithisak Aongyong Chanthamrong, Abdulromea Baka, I. Sama-ae and Tanawat Chaowasku. 2026. Molecular Phylogenetic and Morphological Evidence supports the Recognition of Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana (Annonaceae), A New Species from southern Thailand.   Blumea - Biodiversity, Evolution and Biogeography of Plants. DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.02 [May 26, 2026]

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[Entomology • 2026] Stygioides hecate • A Golden Shadow in the Mountains: A New Stygioides Bruand, 1853 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) from Turkey

 Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen, 

in Japaridze, Junnilainen et Sihvonen, 2026.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.2.8

 

Abstract

A new species of the genus Stygioides Bruand, 1853 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) is described from central Turkey. Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. is based on material collected in the Sultan Daðlarý Mountains (Konya Province). The new species is characterised by its distinct wing coloration in females. Adults are diurnal, as in other members of the genus, and were collected by daytime netting. DNA barcode data (COI) are provided and compared with available sequences in the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD Systems), supporting the distinctiveness of the new taxon. The discovery of this species increases the number of Stygioides species to 10 and those from Turkey to three, thus contributing to a better understanding of the diversity and distribution of the genus in the Palaearctic realm.

Lepidoptera, carpenter moths, DNA barcoding, Heteroneura, Middle East

Adults of Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov.
 A–B. Paratype male, dorsal and ventral view and associated labels.
C–D. Holotype female, dorsal and ventral view and associated labels.

Scale bar: 10 mm

Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Males of S. hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. differ from S. nupponenorum by the presence of a distinct white tip of the male abdomen and white scales on the antennae, the absence of brown piliform scales on the abdomen, a narrower apex of the valvae, and a shorter saccus (Figs 1A–1B, 2 C; cf. Lingenhöle et al. 2016: fig. 6; Yakovlev 2011: fig. 35). Females are readily distinguished from all congeners by the presence of golden-yellow scales on the antennae, head, thorax and wings (Figs 1C–1D; cf. Lingenhöle et al. 2017: figs 1–3, 9; Japaridze et al. 2025b: fig. 22).

Etymology: The species name is derived from Hecate, the ancient Greek goddess associated with the night and commonly depicted carrying yellow or golden torches. This name alludes to the coloration of the holotype female, which is predominantly black with yellow-golden scales on the wings, thorax, head, and antennae.

LASHA-GIORGI JAPARIDZE, JARI JUNNILAINEN and PASI SIHVONEN. 2026. A Golden Shadow in the Mountains: A New Stygioides Bruand, 1853 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) from Turkey.  Zootaxa. 5821(2); 274-280. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.2.8 [2026-05-29]

[Botany • 2026] Lasianthus sondangii (Rubiaceae) • A New Species with a unique spiciform inflorescence from Central Vietnam

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen, 

in Tran, V. C. Nguyen, Luong, Phan-Thi, H. T. Nguyen, Truong et Q. B. Nguyen, 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2193

Abstract

Lasianthus sondangii, a new species from Lasianthus section Nudiflorae, is described from Khanh Hoa Province, Central Vietnam. It can be distinguished from other Lasianthus species in Vietnam and surrounding countries by having narrowly triangular stipules, spiciform inflorescences with two or three reduced cyme secondary axes, purple flowers, and clavate calyx lobes with revolute margins. A detailed description of the new species, color plates, distribution, habitat and preliminary conservation assessment are provided.

Keyword: Indochina, Khanh Hoa, Lasiantheae, plant conservation, plant diversity, sect. Nudiflorae

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen.
A. A flowering and fruiting branch. B. Apical shoot showing young leaves and stipule. C. Inflorescence and infructescence. D. Infructescence (side view) E. Flowers buds (mature (left) and immature (right)). F. Open flower in different views (side view (left) and top view (right)). G. Corolla artificially cut open, showing hairs at the throat and stamens. H. Flower with the corolla removed to show the ovary, calyx, style, and stigma (left) and longitudinal section that shows the calyx lobes, and the ovule (right). I. Mature fruit (left) and the cross section of fruit shows pyrenes and albumen of seeds (right).

Drawn by Phan Thi Thanh Nha from type QB137.

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen.
A. Habit and habitat. B. A flowering and fruiting branch. C. Apical shoot showing young leaves and stipule. D. Stipule. E. Leaves (adaxial surface (left) and abaxial surface (right)). F. Infructescence. G. Inflorescences. H. Inflorescence bearing open flowers.

(A, B, E–H by Nguyen Van Canh; C, D by Nguyen Quoc Bao from type QB137).

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: The new species is distinct from other Lasianthus species in Vietnam and Indo-China by its spiciform, sympodial, reduced-cymose inflorescence; purple flowers (including calyx), calyx lobes obovate with revolute margins.

Thi Thuy Nhan Tran, Van Canh Nguyen, Van Dung Luong, Thanh Nha Phan-Thi, Hoa Thi Nguyen, Ba Vuong Truong and Quoc Bao Nguyen. 2026. Lasianthus sondangii (Rubiaceae, Lasianthus section Nudiflorae), A New Species with a unique spiciform inflorescence from Central Vietnam. Taiwania. 71(3); 488 - 494. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.488 [26 May 2026] 

 https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2193

[Herpetology • 2026] Pristimantis fergusoni • A New spiny frog of the Genus Pristimantis (Anura: Strabomantidae) from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes

 

Pristimantis fergusoni 

J. P. Reyes-Puig, Yánez-Muñoz, Ron, Venegas, Ortega, Carrión-Olmedo & C. Reyes-Puig, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1269.162260

Abstract

A new species of rain frog from the upper montane forest of the eastern Andes in the upper Pastaza watershed, Ecuador is described. Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov. is characterized by its short snout, conical tubercles on upper eyelids and heels, combined with a scarlet colored belly in females. These unique traits differentiate the new species among other Pristimantis of upper montane eastern Ecuadorian Andes. Phylogenetic analyses support its validity and place it within a clade nested with other tuberculated species occurring along the Andean slopes. Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov. is currently known from only two close localities (Cerro Candelaria and Chamana Reserves) at elevations between 2972 and 3200 m elevation, within the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor. Data Deficient IUCN status is proposed until new information is available. Individuals were observed at night perched on vegetation in herbaceous and arbustive vegetation of upper montane forest. This discovery contributes to a growing body of evidence identifying the upper Pastaza valley as a hotspot of amphibian endemism and diversification. With this addition, 30 strabomantid species are described for this region in the last decades, underscoring its conservation importance. This discovery highlights the urgent need for integrated taxonomic efforts combining fieldwork, morphology, and molecular data to resolve complex evolutionary relationships within the megadiverse genus Pristimantis, especially in underexplored high-elevation habitats of the tropical Andes. Finally, we provide an updated phylogeny for this clade that clarifies its evolutionary relationships.

Key words: Amphibia, Andean slopes, morphology, Pristimantis gualacenio species complex, taxonomy

Life color and sexual dimorphism in Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov.
A. Female holotype DHMECN 13318; B. Female DHMECN 19390;
C. Male DHMECN 19388; D. Male DHMECN 19389.

Dorsal and ventral view, respectively. Photographs by J. P. Reyes-Puig.

Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov.

Live photographs of the new species and comparison with related and similar Pristimantis species from eastern Andes of Ecuador.
A. Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov., female holotype DHMECN 13318, from Cerro Candelaria; B. P. gualacenio DHMECN 10748, from Area de Conservación Municipal Tinajillas; C. P. bellae DHMECN 4812, from Cerro Candelaria;
D. P. eriphus DHMECN 5209, from Río Zuñag; E. P. incanus DHMECN 11857, from Reventador; F. P. roni, DHMECN 11313, from Sardinayacu; 
G. P. katoptroides QCAZ58900, from Sadinayacu; H. P. inusitatus not collected, from Napo San Isidro; I. P. galdi DHMECN 9640, from Reserva Tapichalaca;
J. P. colonensis DHMECN 6414, from La Bonita; K. P. venegasi MZUTI 6571; L. P. yanezi DHMECN 13309, from Río Zuñag.

Photographs by JPRP, MYM, SRR, Juan Carlos Sánchez-Nivicela, and Patricia Bejarano-Muñoz.

  Juan Pablo Reyes-Puig, Mario H. Yánez-Muñoz, Santiago R. Ron, Pablo J. Venegas, Jhael Ortega, Julio C. Carrión-Olmedo and Carolina Reyes-Puig. 2026. A New spiny frog of the Genus Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes. ZooKeys. 1269: 83-105. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1269.162260 [13-02-2026]

[Funga • 2024] Hydnum cremeum, H. roseotangerinum, L. subalpina, ... (Agaricomycetes: Hydnaceae) • New Contributions on Species Diversity of Genus Hydnum and Lentaria s.l. in China

 

Hydnum cremeum  L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & T.J. Yu,  
H. flavosquamosum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su, 
H.roseoalbum L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & W.H. Zhang, 
H. roseotangerinum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su, 

in Su, Yu, Xue, Zhang, Xu, Xia, Li, Lei, Dong, Zhang et Tang, 2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3390/jof10120824 

 

Abstract

Southwest China is extremely rich in fungal resources, and a large number of new taxa have been discovered in recent years. In the present study, we examined 26 specimens of the genera Hydnum and Lentaria sensu lato, most of which were obtained in Yunnan Province. Through ITS-nrLSU-tef1 phylogenetic analysis, combined with morphological studies and geographic analyses, five new species were described, viz. Hydnum cremeum, H. flavoquamosum, H. roseoalbum, H. roseotangerinum, and L. subalpina. Furthermore, we also supplied new information on some known species, including host plants and new distribution records. We re-examined the holotype sequences of two known taxa, H. flabellatum and H. pallidomarginatum, treating H. flabellatum as a synonym of H. pallidomarginatum. Additionally, a key to Lentaria s.l. in China was provided.

Keywords: taxonomy; species delimitation; coralloid fungi; edible mushroom; spinous fungi 

Macroscopic and microscopic features of Hydnum cremeum. (a–c) Basidiomata, (a,c) from MHKMU TJ Yu 197, Holotype; (b) from MHKMU WH Zhang 599; (d) Basidiospores; (e) Basidia and Basidioles; (f) Pileipellis. Bars (d) = 10 μm; (e) = 20 μm; (f) = 50 μm.
Macroscopic and microscopic features of Hydnum flavosquamosum from MHKMU LP Tang 3454 (Holotype). (a–c) Basidiomata; (d) Basidiospores; (e) Basidia and Basidioles; (f) Pileipellis. Bars (d) = 10 μm; (e) = 20 μm; (f) = 50 μm. 
 Macroscopic and microscopic features of Hydnum roseotangerinum from MHKMU LP Tang 3458 (Holotype). (a,b) Basidiomata; (c) Basidiospores; (d) Basidioles; (e) Basidia; (f) Pileipellis. Bars (c) = 10 μm; (d,e) = 20 μm; (f) = 50 μm.

Hydnum cremeum L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & T.J. Yu sp. nov.  

奶油齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘cremeum’ = cream, refers to the color of basidiomata.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum mainly by its small basidiomata with a warm cream to yellowish white pileus, globose to subglobose basidiospores, and occurrence in subalpine mixed forests.

Hydnum flavosquamosum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su sp. nov.  

黄鳞齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘flavo’ = yellow, ‘squamosum’ = scaly, refers to the pileus covering with yellowish brown scales.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum mainly by its light yellow to light brownish-orange pileus with slightly dark scales, context becoming pale brownish on exposure, adnexed, spines, subglobose to broadly ellipsoid (Q = 1.05–1.23) basidiospores, and erectly arranged hyphae in pileipellis.

Hydnum roseoalbum L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & W.H. Zhang sp. nov. 

粉白齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘roseo’ = pink, ‘album’ = white, refers to the color of its spines. 

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum by its creamy to whitish pileus, pale pink spines, five-spored basidia, globose basidiospores, erectly arranged hyphae in pileipellis, and occurrence in subalpine broad-leaved forests.

Hydnum roseotangerinum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su sp. nov. 

粉橙齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘roseo’ = pink, ‘tangerinum’ = orange, refers to the color of spines.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum by its brownish orange pileus, pinkish orange spines, globose to subglobose, sometimes broadly ellipsoid basidiospores, and occurrence in mixed subalpine forests.

Lentaria subalpina L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & T.J. Yu sp. nov.  

亚高山木瑚菌

Etymology—The Latin ‘subalpina’ refers to this species growing in subalpine forests.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other Lentaria species mainly due to the grayish orange to brownish orange basidiomata, sometimes carbonized, black branch apices, elongated ellipsoid to cylindrical basidiospores (9.0–11.0 × 4.8–5.7 μm), and growing in dead branches of Abies or Picea in subalpine forests.

 Linjie Su, Taijie Yu, Rou Xue, Wenhao Zhang, Chang Xu, Xing Xia, Jia Li, Hanchi Lei, Yang Dong, Guoli Zhang and Liping Tang. 2024. New Contributions on Species Diversity of Genus Hydnum and Lentaria s.l. in China. J. Fungi. 10(12), 824; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/jof10120824 [27 November 2024]

[Entomology • 2026] Diaphanes meghalayanus & D. mawlynnong • Two New firefly Species of the Genus Diaphanes Motschulsky, 1853 (Coleoptera: Lampyridae: Lampyrinae) from Meghalaya, Northeast India

 

[A–B] Diaphanes meghalayanus sp. nov.;
[C–D] D. mawlynnong sp. nov.   

Nonglang, Das, Shangpliang, 

in Nonglang, Wijekoon, Ryndong, Das, Sengupta et Shangpliang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.48311/jibs.12.02.415  

facebook.com: Chandana Wijekoon

Abstract

Two new Diaphanes Motschulsky 1853 species, D. meghalayanus Nonglang, Das, Shangpliang sp. nov., and D. mawlynnong Nonglang, Das, Shangpliang sp. nov., from Meghalaya, Northeast India, are described. Diaphanes meghalayanus sp. nov., is characterised by a unique colour pattern of the central disc, the absence of a typical circular pronotal areolet area, brownish-yellow pronotum and elytra, and other specific features of male genitalia. Diaphanes mawlynnong sp. nov., is distinct with rare moniliform antennae, circular-shaped pronotal areolet areas with blunt posterior lateral corners, and specific genital aedeagus characters. The female of D. mawlynnong sp. nov., which is apterous, was found in the same habitat where its males were associated. 13 Diaphanes species have been recorded from India, and with the discovery of these two new species, the number of Diaphanes species recorded in the country increases to 15. This knowledge significantly contributes to the existing information gap of Diaphanes diversity and distribution in this region.

 

Keywords: Biodiversity Hotspot, Indo-Burma, Lampyrids, Oriental, taxonomy

 

 General habitus of two new Diaphanes species from India, males.
A–B. Diaphanes meghalayanus sp. nov.; C–D. Diaphanes mawlynnong sp. nov.,
A., C. Dorsal view; B., D. Ventral view.

Diaphanes meghalayanus Nonglang, Das, Shangpliang sp. nov. 

Diaphanes mawlynnong Nonglang, Das & Shangpliang sp. nov. 

Emma Magdalene Nonglang, Chandana Dammika Wijekoon, Memorial M Ryndong, Dhiraj Kumar Das, Samrat Sengupta and Jane Wanry Shangpliang. 2026. Two New firefly Species of the Genus Diaphanes Motschulsky, 1853 (Coleoptera: Lampyridae: Lampyrinae) from Meghalaya, Northeast India. Journal of Insect Biodiversity and Systematics. 12(2); 415-429. DOI: doi.org/10.48311/jibs.12.02.415 [2026-04-25]

https://www.biotaxa.org/jibs/article/view/87726

 facebook.com/ChandanaWijekoon3/posts/27450493694537347

[Entomology • 2026] Sclerocardius lyali • A New Species of the Genus Sclerocardius Schoenherr, 1847 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from Thailand

 

Sclerocardius lyali 

Legalov & Bezborodov, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.48311/jibs.12.02.407 

biotaxa.org/jibs

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Abstract

A new species, Sclerocardius lyali sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand. The new species is close to Sclerocardius indicus Hartmann, 1903, but differs in the body covered with short setiform yellowish and pale scales, the postero-ventral side of the protibia lacking teeth, a pronotum with quite large punctation, and a narrower aedeagus. This is the first record of Sclerocardius Schoenherr, 1847, from Thailand. A key to Asian species of the genus Sclerocardius is also given.

 

 Keywords: Curculionoidea, Molytinae, Sclerocardiini, new species, Mae Hong Son Province

 

Sclerocardius lyali sp. n., holotype, male.
A. Habitus, dorsal view; B. Habitus, ventral view; C. Habitus, frontal view; D. Aedeagus, dorsal view; E. Aedeagus, ventral view; F. Aedeagus, lateral view; G. Abdomen, ventral view.

Class Insecta Linnaeus, 1758

Order Coleoptera Linnaeus, 1758

Family Curculionidae Latreille, 1802

Subfamily Molytinae Schoenherr, 1823

Tribe Sclerocardiini Lacordaire, 1866

Genus Sclerocardius Schoenherr, 1847

Type species. Sclerocardius bohemani Schoenherr, 1847.

Sclerocardius lyali Legalov & Bezborodov, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. Patronymic. In honour of Christopher H.C. Lyal (London, UK), who revised the genus

Sclerocardius.

Diagnosis. This new species is closely related to Sclerocardius indicus Hartmann, 1903, but differs in that it has short setiform yellowish and pale scales on the body, a postero-ventral side of the protibia without teeth, a pronotum with quite large punctation, and a narrower aedeagus. Sclerocardius indicus is characterised by a body covered in long, narrow, orange scales; a pronotum with relatively small punctation; a postero-ventral side of the protibia with three rounded teeth; and the aedeagus is also wider.

Andrei Legalov and Vitaly G Bezborodov. 2026. A New Species of the Genus Sclerocardius Schoenherr, 1847 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from Thailand. Journal of Insect Biodiversity and Systematics. 12(2); 407-413. DOI: doi.org/10.48311/jibs.12.02.407 [2026-04-16] 

https://www.biotaxa.org/jibs/article/view/88627

 facebook.com/AndreiLegalov/posts/3470913219750951