[Mammalogy • 2024] Murina yushuensis • A New Dpecies of Tube-nosed Bat (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae: Murina) from Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, China

 

Murina yushuensis Han, Csorba & Wu, 

in Wang, Han, Csorba, Wu, Chen, Zhao, Dong, Yu et Lu, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyae104

Abstract

In 2018, an adult male of a small-sized Tube-nosed Bat (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae: Murina) was captured at an arid cave located on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in Yushu City, Qinghai Province, China. Despite external morphological similarities with those of M. harpioloides and M. chrysochaetes, the individual in question displays explicit craniodental differences that distinguish it from either species. Morphological and morphometric evidence, coupled with phylogenetic analyses utilizing the mitochondrial COI gene, confirmed that it represents a distinct and still unknown species of Murina, described herewith as M. yushuensis sp. nov. Our research highlights the importance of future surveys aimed at exploring cryptic species diversity in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and adjacent under-surveyed regions.

morphometrics, Murininae, phylogeny, systematics, taxonomy

Skull and dentition of Murina yushuensis sp. nov. (Holotype, GZHU 20077).
(A) Lateral view of skull and mandible. (B) Dorsal view of skull. (C) Ventral view of skull with details of the upper toothrow. (D) Occlusal view of mandible with details of the lower toothrow.

 External features and habitat of Murina yushuensis sp. nov. (Holotype, GZHU 20077).
(A) Live individual. (B) Dorsal, and (C) ventral aspect of the body. (D) Surrounding environment of the cave in July, and (E) in March. (F) Type specimen hibernating in the cave.

Photos by Xuesong Han, Yi Wu, and Wenhua Yu.

Xiaoyun Wang, Xuesong Han, Gábor Csorba, Yi Wu, Huaiqing Chen, Xiang Zhao, Zhengyi Dong, Wenhua Yu and Zhi Lu. 2024. A New Dpecies of Tube-nosed Bat (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae: Murina) from Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, China. Journal of Mammalogy. gyae104. DOI: doi.org/10.1093/jmammal/gyae104

本研究于2018年在中国青海玉树1个河流旁的干燥洞穴中捕获1只雄性小型管鼻蝠（翼手目Chiroptera：蝙蝠科Vespertilionidae：管鼻蝠属Murina）。其主要特征为，前臂长31.34 mm，颅全长14.14 mm；耳小而圆，无缺刻；背毛呈现基部黑色，顶端为棕金色；腹毛基部较长，呈深黑色，顶部呈灰白色。基于形态学证据和COI构建的系统发育树，本研究将其鉴定为管鼻蝠属的新物种，命名为玉树管鼻蝠（Murina yushuensis sp. nov. Han, Csorba et Wu, 2024）。该发现不仅丰富了翼手目物种多样性，还说明了在青藏高原及周边区域等特殊生境开展翼手目调查的重要性。 ||   形态度量学, 管鼻蝠亚科, 系统发育关系, 系统学, 分类学

 

[Botany • 2024] Perilimnastes aura (Melastomataceae: Sonerileae) • A New Species from Dak Cheung Plateau, Sekong province, Southern Laos

Perilimnastes aura  

in Souvannakhoummane, Lamxay, Lanorsavanh et Liu. 2024. 

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.670.1.8

facebook.com: ແກ້ວອຸດອນ ສຸວັນນະກຸມມານ 

Abstract

Perilimnastes aura, a species found in Sekong province, Laos, is described as new. Its habit and morphology of leaves, inflorescences, flowers, and capsules match all diagnostic features of Perilimnastes. It most closely resembles P. suberalata in the quadrangular stems, unequal leaves, and glabrescent, oblanceolate to broadly elliptic leaf blade, but differs in the acute leaf apex (vs. acuminate), 1–3-flowered inflorescence (vs. 1-flowered), quadrangular hypanthium (vs. obtusely quadrangular) and broadly triangular, 1.8–2.2 mm long calyx lobes (vs. linear, 8–10 mm long). Information on habitat, ecology, and a preliminary assessment of the conservation status are also provided for the new species.

Phyllagathis, new description, new taxa, evergreen mountains, taxonomy, Eudicots

Perilimnastes aura sp. nov.

Keooudone Souvannakhoummane, Vichith Lamxay, Soulivanh Lanorsavanh and Ying Liu. 2024. Perilimnastes aura (Sonerileae, Melastomataceae), A New Species from Dak Cheung Plateau, Sekong province, Southern Laos. Phytotaxa. 670(1); 77-82. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.670.1.8

ພືດຊະນິດໃຫມ່ຂອງໂລກ, ຖີ່ນກຳເກີດຈາກພູພຽງດັກຈຶງ, ແຂວງເຊກອງ. 

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[PaleoMammalogy • 2024] Unveiling the Neuroanatomy of Josephoartigasia monesi and the Evolution of Encephalization in Caviomorph Rodents

 

 Josephoartigasia monesi Rinderknecht & Blanco, 2008

in Ferreira, Rinderknecht, de Moura Bubadué, Gasparetto, Dozo, Sánchez-Villagra et Kerber, 2024. 

  the Neuromy of  and the  of   in Caviomorph Rodents.  

DOI: 10.1007/s00429-024-02762-y

Artistic reconstruction by Márcio L. Castro  facebook.com/MarciolCastro

Abstract

Caviomorph rodents are an exceptional model for studying the effects of ecological factors and size relations on brain evolution. These mammals are not only speciose and ecologically diverse but also present wide body size disparity, especially when considering their fossil relatives. Here, we described the brain anatomy of the largest known rodent, Josephoartigasia monesi, uncovering distinctive features within this species regarding other taxa. Albeit resembling extant pacarana Dinomys branickii, J. monesi stands out due to its longer olfactory tract and well-developed sagittal sinus. Challenging the previous hypothesis that giant rodents possessed comparatively smaller brains, we found that J. monesi and another giant extinct rodent, Neoepiblema acreensis, are within the encephalization range of extant caviomorphs. This was unraveled while developing the a Phylogenetic Encephalization Quotient (PEQ) for Caviomorpha. With PEQ, we were able to trace brain-size predictions more accurately, accounting for species-shared ancestry while adding the extinct taxa phenotypic diversity into the prediction model. According to our results, caviomorphs encephalization patterns are not the product of ecological adaptations, and brain allometry is highly conservative within the clade. We challenge future studies to investigate caviomorphs encephalization within different taxonomic ranks while increasing the sampled taxa diversity, especially of extinct forms, in order to fully comprehend the magnitude of this evolutionary stasis.

 

Keywords: Adaptive regimes, Allometric trends, Brain evolution, Cranial endocast, South America, Brain Structure and Function

 

Artistic reconstruction of Josephoartigasia monesi.

Art by Márcio L. Castro

José Darival Ferreira, Andrés Rinderknecht, Jamile de Moura Bubadué, Luiza Flores Gasparetto, Maria Teresa Dozo, Marcelo R. Sánchez-Villagra and Leonardo Kerber. 2024. Unveiling the Neuroanatomy of Josephoartigasia monesi and the Evolution of Encephalization in Caviomorph Rodents.  Brain Structure and Function. 229; 971–985. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s00429-024-02762-y

 facebook.com/MarciolCastro/posts/10233870342477371

[Herpetology • 2024] Brachycephalus dacnis • Among the World’s Smallest Vertebrates: A New miniaturized Flea-toad (Brachycephalidae) from the Atlantic Rainforest

Brachycephalus dacnis 

 Toledo​, Botelho, Carrasco-Medina, Gray, Ernetti, Gama, Lyra, Blackburn, Nunes & Muscat, 2024 

DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18265  

 Researchgate.net/publication/385243914

Abstract 

The genus Brachycephalus includes miniaturized toadlets with two distinct morphotypes: brightly colored species with a bufoniform phenotype and smaller, cryptic species with a leptodactyliform phenotype. The diversity of leptodactyliform species is still underappreciated, and we generally lack fundamental information about their biology. Recent sampling efforts, including DNA analyses and recordings of advertisement calls, have improved our understanding of this group. In the present study, we describe a new species of Brachycephalus, one of the smallest vertebrates known. This new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of morphological, bioacoustic, and genetic data. Despite being among the smallest frogs globally (the second smallest amphibian species), it exhibits skeletal traits typical of larger frogs, such as the presence of cranial bones that are lost or fused in other miniature frogs, including other Brachycephalus. Our description underscores how new discoveries within the megadiverse fauna of the Atlantic Forest—a rich biodiversity hotspot—can provide insights into phenotypic variation, including vertebrate body size. By describing this new species, we also aim to revisit the hypothesis that the type series of B. hermogenesi includes two species, potentially including individuals of the species described here.

Brachycephalus dacnis paratype (ZUEC-AMP 25612) adult male, SVL = 7.89 mm.
(A) Dorsal view, (B) ventral view, (C) ventral view of hand, (D) ventral view of feet.

Brachycephalus dacnis paratype individuals found at the Projeto Dacnis private reserve, municipality of Ubatuba, state of São Paulo, Brazil.
(A) ZUEC-AMP 25272; (B) ZUEC-AMP 25274; (C and D) ZUEC-AMP 25275 displaying mouth-gaping behavior and the same individual on top of one herpetologist’s fingertip.

Brachycephalus dacnis sp. nov.  

Diagnosis–The new species is assigned to the genus Brachycephalus because of its miniature body size, fewer phalanges and toes than a typical frog, fingers and toe tips not expanded but apically pointed, and toes lacking circumferential grooves. The new species can be diagnosed from its congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) “leptodactyliform” body shape; (2) adult body length (SVL) smaller than 1 cm; (3) distinct and functional toes II and V; (4) presence of vestigial fingers I and IV; (5) distinct iris; (6) absence of dark markings on the skin over the pectoral region; (7) dark black or pale brown marbled venter with small white blotches in preserved specimens; (8) and advertisement call composed of one or two multi-pulsed (3–7 pulses) note with dominant frequency between 8.01 and 8.44 kHz, note duration between 0.03–0.08 s (when isolated), up to 0.41 s (when in pairs), and absence of attenuated notes.

Etymology–The specific epithet name ‘dacnis’ honors the Projeto Dacnis private reserve and NGO that has supported biodiversity research since 2010 in the municipalities of São José dos Campos, Miracatu and Ubatuba (where the new species was discovered), state of São Paulo, Brazil. The name is used as an invariable noun in apposition to the generic name.

 Luís Felipe Toledo​, Lucas Machado Botelho, Andres Santiago Carrasco-Medina, Jaimi A. Gray, Julia R. Ernetti, Joana Moura Gama, Mariana Lucio Lyra, David C. Blackburn, Ivan Nunes amd Edelcio Muscat. 2024. Among the World’s Smallest Vertebrates: A New miniaturized Flea-toad (Brachycephalidae) from the Atlantic rainforest. PeerJ. 12:e18265 DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18265 

  Researchgate.net/publication/385243914_Aa_new_miniaturized_flea-toad_Brachycephalidae_from_the_Atlantic_rainforest

[Paleontology • 2024] Quaestio simpsonorum • A New motile animal with implications for the Evolution of axial polarity from the Ediacaran of South Australia

 

Quaestio simpsonorum 

Evans, Hughes, Hughes, Dzaugis, Dzaugis, Gehling, García-Bellido & Droser, 2024

DOI: 10.1111/ede.12491

Abstract

Fossils of the Ediacara Biota preserve the oldest evidence for complex, macroscopic animals. Most are difficult to constrain phylogenetically, however, the presence of rare, derived groups suggests that many more fossils from this period represent extant groups than are currently appreciated. One approach to recognize such early animals is to instead focus on characteristics widespread in animals today, for example multicellularity, motility, and axial polarity. Here, we describe a new taxon, Quaestio simpsonorum gen. et sp. nov. from the Ediacaran of South Australia. Quaestio is reconstructed with a thin external membrane connecting more resilient tissues with anterior-posterior polarity, left-right asymmetry and tentative evidence for dorsoventral differentiation. Associated trace fossils indicate an epibenthic and motile lifestyle. Our results suggest that Quaestio was a motile eumetazoan with a body plan not previously recognized in the Ediacaran, including definitive evidence of chirality. This organization, combined with previous evidence for axial patterning in a variety of other Ediacara taxa, demonstrates that metazoan body plans were well established in the Precambrian.

Keywords: axial polarity, chirality, Ediacara Biota, motility, symmetry

Quaestio simpsonorum gen. et sp. nov.

 

Scott D. Evans, Ian V. Hughes, Emily B. Hughes, Peter W. Dzaugis, Matthew P. Dzaugis, James G. Gehling, Diego C. García-Bellido and Mary L. Droser. 2024. A New motile animal with implications for the Evolution of axial polarity from the Ediacaran of South Australia. Evolution & Development. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/ede.12491

scientist discovers one of the earth’s earliest animals in Australian outback

https://news.fsu.edu/news/university-news/2024/10/14/florida-state-university-scientist-discovers-one-of-the-earths-earliest-animals-in-australian-outback/

[Crustacea • 2024] Melita panda • A New Species of Melitidae (Amphipoda) from Japan

Melita panda

Tomikawa, Yamato & Ariyama, 2024 

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1212.128858

Abstract

A new intertidal species of the melitid amphipod, Melita panda, from the Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is identified and described. Melita panda sp. nov. differs from the similar M. koreana and M. nagatai by its black-and-white body color, well-developed anterodistal projection of the male gnathopod 1 propodus, and telson armature. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear 28S rRNA and mitochondrial COI genes support that M. panda sp. nov. is closely related to M. koreana and M. nagatai.

Key words: Intertidal zone, Melita panda, molecular phylogeny, morphology, systematics, taxonomy, Wakayama

Family Melitidae Bousfield, 1973

Genus Melita Leach, 1814

Melita panda sp. nov. holotype, male 6.0 mm (NSMT-Cr 32141), habitus, lateral view.

Melita panda sp. nov.

   New Japanese name: Panda-melita-yokoebi

   

Diagnosis: Head with eyes; antennal sinus incised. Pleonites and urosomites lacking dorsal teeth. Epimeral plate 3 with weakly pointed posterodistal corner. Urosomite 2 with 3 dorsolateral robust setae on each side without distinct teeth. Antenna 1 with 4-articulate accessory flagellum. Maxilla 1 with inner plate bearing 7 plumose setae. Gnathopod 1 with basis and ischium bearing small palmate setae. Male gnathopod 1 with anterodistal projection on propodus forming rounded hood, covering almost all of dactylus, propodus with 3 and 1 robust setae on posterior margin and at the base of anterodistal projection, respectively. Male gnathopod 2 with subquadrate propodus setaceous on medial surface, angle between posterior and palmar margins of propodus being approximately 140°. Female coxa 6 hooked with anterior lobe 1.2 times deeper than width of coxa. Uropod 3 with 1-articulate outer ramus. Telson longer than its width.

Etymology: The species name “panda” is derived from its black-and-white body coloration, which resembles that of the giant panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca.

 Ko Tomikawa, Shigeyuki Yamato and Hiroyuki Ariyama. 2024. Melita panda, A New Species of Melitidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from Japan. ZooKeys. 1212: 267-283. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1212.128858

[Herpetology • 2024] Gehyra corona • A New insular Species of Gehyra (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Papua New Guinea closely related to Gehyra oceanica

Gehyra corona Kraus, Vahtera & Weijola, 2024
and G. oceanica lineage M6 from nearby islands of the Bismarck Volcanic arc.

 

DOI: 10.1080/14772000.2024.2404829  

Abstract

The wide-ranging gecko Gehyra oceanica occupies numerous islands across much of the Pacific Ocean basin. Previous work has identified six divergent genetic lineages within lizards assigned to this species. During an expedition to islands off of northern New Guinea we collected lizards of this complex on Crown Island that differ from all other known Gehyra in being sexually dimorphic in colour pattern. We find this population to also be genetically divergent to the other lineages previously identified, as we do with another lineage of populations from nearby islands. Given the unique colour pattern of the Crown Island population, combined with its divergent range of precloacal-femoral pores in males and its phylogenetic uniqueness from other members of this complex, we describe this population as a new species, Gehyra corona sp. nov. currently known only from Crown Island, Papua New Guinea. The discovery of this new species and an additional divergent genetic lineage from within the G. oceanica complex highlights the need for further taxonomic revision of that species complex. It seems likely that the new species we identify will prove endemic to Crown Island, but additional islands from around the Bismarck Sea need survey to establish its full range. Given the undisturbed habitat on most of Crown Island and the low human population there, we suggest that this species’ IUCN Red List conservation status be Least Concern.  

Key words: Bismarck Volcanic Arc, Crown Island, dichromatism, endemism, gecko, sexual dimorphism, species complex

 Holotype of Gehyra corona, UMMZ 247756.
(A) dorsal view of head, (B) ventral view of head, (C) pubic region showing precloacal pore series, and (D) left foot. Scale bars = 5 mm.

Fig. 3. Portraits in life of members of Gehyra corona and G. oceanica lineage M6 from nearby islands of the Bismarck Volcanic arc.
(A) male G. corona paratype from Crown Island (UMMZ 247754), (B) female G. corona paratype from Crown Island (UMMZ 247755),
(C) G. oceanica lineage M6 from Tolokiwa Island (UMMZ 247759), and (D) G. oceanica lineage M6 from Umboi Island (UMMZ 247771).
In none of the islands near to Crown Island did we find morphotypes similar to male G. corona.

Gehyra corona sp. nov.

   

Diagnosis: An intermediately sized (adult female SVL 75–88 mm, adult male 79–95 mm) species of Gehyra having entirely undivided subterminal lamellae on all toes; 16–19 T4 lamellae; 12–15 T1 lamellae; extensive webbing between all toes; 27–32 precloacal-femoral pores in a continuous row in males; small and subequal subcaudal scales; rounded tail lacking serrations; lateral, antecubital, and popliteal skin folds absent or weakly developed; and colour pattern sexually dimorphic, with males boldly maculated with dark brown dorsally (Fig. 3A) and females grey irregularly suffused with brown and with whitish or pale-grey dots on neck and head (Fig. 3B).

Etymology: The species name is the Latin noun for ‘crown’, named for the sole island from which this species is named.

 Habitat around the type locality of Gehyra corona on Crown Island from which lizards were collected on tree trunks.

Ecology: The type series was collected active at night in disturbed low-elevation forest near (but not on) the coast (Fig. 6). All animals came from tree trunks, including on Pandanus (presumably P. tectorius) and Cocos nucifera.

Fred Kraus, Varpu Vahtera and Valter Weijola. 2024. A New insular Species of Gehyra (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Papua New Guinea closely related to Gehyra oceanica. Systematics and Biodiversity. 22(1); 2404829. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/14772000.2024.2404829  

[Botany • 2024] Petrocodon paradelphinius (Gesneriaceae) • A New dazzling Species from the Limestone Area of Guangxi, China

 

Petrocodon paradelphinius F.Wen & W.C.Chou, 

in Wen et Chou, 2024. 

 飛燕石山苣苔  ||  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2028 

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Abstract

Petrocodon paradelphinius F.Wen & W.C.Chou, a new species of Gesneriaceae from the limestone area of Guangxi, Southwest China, is described and illustrated here. This new species morphologically resembles P. fangianus (Y.G.Wei) J.M.Li & Yin Z.Wang, but it can be easily distinguished from the latter by having peduncles and pedicels puberulent, corolla outside sparsely puberulent, shorter tube 18–20 mm long, orifice from throat to the interior smooth, without protuberances, and lacks nectar guides. The conservation status of P. paradelphinius can be assessed provisionally as Critically Endangered [CR B2b(ii, v) + C2(a, i)].

Keyword: Flora of Guangxi, Limestone flora, Lithophilous, new taxon, Petrocodon fangianus, Taxonomy

Photographs of Petrocodon paradelphinius F.Wen & W.C.Chou sp. nov. 
 A. Habit. B. The adaxial view of leaf. C. The abaxial view of leaf. D. The top view of cyme. E. The calyx lobes. F. The cyme after removing the corolla. G. Pistil. H. Opened corolla. I. Stamens

 (Photoed by Fang Wen).

Photographs of Petrocodon paradelphinius F.Wen & W.C.Chou sp. nov.
A. Habitat at the type location. B. The flowering plant in the field. C. The cultivated plants. D. The lateral view of corolla ca. 1 day after the flower blooms. E. The lateral view of the corolla ca. 5 days after the flower blooms.

 (photo A-B by Wei-Chuen Chou; C-E by Fang Wen).

Petrocodon paradelphinius F.Wen & W.C.Chou, sp. nov.

 飛燕石山苣苔

Diagnosis: Morphologically, Petrocodon paradelphinius F.Wen & W.C.Chou resembles P. fangianus (Y.G.Wei) J.M.Li & Yin Z.Wang in leaf blade coriaceous and shape elliptic to oblong, differs from the latter in peduncles and pedicels puberulent (vs. peduncles and pedicels puberulent and glandu-puberulent in P. fangianus, the order same as follows); corolla outside sparsely puberulent (vs. sparsely glandular puberulent), tube curved, 18–20 mm long (vs. straight, ca. 26 mm long), orifice from throat to the interior smooth, without protuberances, and lacks nectar guides (vs. orifice with two oblong, brown, glandular puberulous below the middle lobes of corolla); significant short style ca. 1.5 mm long (vs. ca. 26.5 mm long), and filaments adnate to corolla tube ca. 7 mm above the base (vs. adnate to corolla tube ca. 19 mm above the base).

Etymology: The specific epithet 'paradelphinius' of this new species is composed of two parts. The prefix 'para-' is derived from the Greek 'παρά' (para), meaning 'beside, similar, or alike,' and it is often used to indicate that two plants have similar but not identical characteristics in plant nomenclature. The latter part '-delphinius' is derived from the genus, Delphinium Linn., and has been modified to a masculine form following the pattern of the genus, Petrocodon. This epithet indicates that the new species' slender corolla tube resembles the elongated spur of flowers in Delphinium. Additionally, the new species' spreading, larger corolla lobes, and bluish-purple hues make it reminiscent of flowers in Delphinium, hence the name 'paradelphinius'.

 

Fang Wen and Wei-Chuen Chou. 2024. A New dazzling Species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocodon paradelphinius, from the Limestone Area of Guangxi, China. Taiwania. 69(4); 491-496. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2024.69.491  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2028

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[Ichthyology • 2024] Microphysogobio punctatus • Redescription of Microphysogobio tungtingensis (Nichols, 1926) with the Description of A New Species of the Genus (Cypriniformes: Gobionidae) from southern China

Microphysogobio punctatus 

Sun, Tang & Zhao, 2024 

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1214.127061

Abstract

Although Microphysogobio tungtingensis (Nichols, 1926) has been treated valid since it was described, its morphology remains vague, especially when comparing it with another similar species, M. elongatus (Yao & Yang, 1977). In this study, the types of both species were examined and also compared with several lots of specimens from a wide geographical range: there is no significant difference in morphology between them. Additionally, molecular evidence supported by mitochondrial gene sequence also showed low genetic distance in between. Thus, it is suggested that M. elongatus is a junior synonym of M. tungtingensis. While revising these two species, a new species, Microphysogobio punctatus sp. nov., was discovered that has a similar distribution with them both. However, it can be distinguished from its congeners by having a globular or oval shaped posterior air-bladder chamber which length 58.6%–82.8% of eye diameter; a narrow upper jaw cutting edge which less than half mouth width; a slender caudal peduncle with depth 34.6%–48.5% of length; and a six-branched-ray anal fin. This new species also has numerous small black spots on all fins which is also unique. The new species is morphologically and molecularly close to M. bicolor (Nichols, 1930).

Key words: East Asia, freshwater fish, Gobionidae, morphology, phylogeny, taxonomy

Microphysogobio punctatus sp. nov. 
A Freshly caught from its type locality, uncatalogued
B live individual from Luzhai County, Liuzhou City, Guangxi Autonomous Region in Luoqingjiang River, collected and photographed by Dr. Fan Li
C original drawing by Zhi-Xian Sun based on individual collected from Yongfu County, Guilin City, Guangxi Autonomous Region in Xihe River.

 Microphysogobio punctatus sp. nov.

Diagnosis: This new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characteristics: Posterior chamber of air-bladder small, globular or oval shaped, length 15.8%–26.4% of head length, and 58.6%–82.8% of eye diameter; upper jaw cutting-edge narrow, width less than half mouth width; caudal peduncle slender, depth 34.6%–48.5% of length; lateral-line scales 37–40 (mode 38, mean 39); circumpeduncular scales 12; branched anal-fin rays 6; midventral region of body scaleless only before pectoral-fin base end; all fins with numerous small black spots.

Etymology: The new species name punctatus is derived from the Latin punctum, meaning spot. The name refers to the numerous black spots on its scales and fin rays. Suggested Chinese name for this species is “斑点小鳔鮈”.

 Zhi-Xian Sun, Wen-Qiao Tang, Ya-Hui Zhao. 2024. Redescription of Microphysogobio tungtingensis (Nichols, 1926) with the Description of A New Species of the Genus (Cypriniformes, Gobionidae) from southern China. ZooKeys. 1214: 161-186. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1214.127061

[Botany • 2024] Alysicarpus littoralis (Fabaceae: Desmodieae) • A New Species from southern Thailand

 

Alysicarpus littoralis Satthaphorn & Leerat., 

in Satthaphorn et Leeratiwong. 2024. 

ถั่วลิสงนาสมุย  ||  www.QSBG.or.th/journal

 

Abstract

Alysicarpus littoralis Satthaphorn & Leerat. (Fabaceae, Desmodieae), a species confined to Samui Island, Surat Thani province, southern Thailand, is described and illustrated as a species new to science. Initially identified as A. vaginalis (L.) DC., the re-examination of morphological characters revealed distinctions of A. littoralis such as the length of inflorescence internode, length of calyx lobes, the colour of corolla and the type of pods at maturity. The newly proposed species is sometimes similar to A. monilifer (L.) DC. And A. ovalifolius (Schumach.) J. Léonard as it exhibits moniliform pods and lax inflorescence, respectively. The conservation status of the new species is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR, B2(bii+ciii)) following IUCN conservation guidelines since populations are surrounded by human disturbances. A morphological description, line drawing and updated key to species of Alysicarpus in Thailand are presented.

Keywords: coastal area, Desmodieae, Papilionoideae, Samui Island, Surat Thani

Line drawings of Alysicarpus littoralis:
 A. habit with inflorescences and infructescences; B. flowers; C. calyx; D. standard; E. wing petal; F. keel petal; G. diadelphous stamens; H. pistil; I. moniliform pod; J. article with reticulation (side view of an article); K. septum between articles (top view of an article); L. seed.

Drawn by J. Satthaphorn from the dried specimen, Leeratiwong 21-1634.

Alysicarpus littoralis:
 A. habit; B. inflorescence with two-tone-coloured corolla; C. close-up flowers; D. moniliform pods.

Photos by C. Leeratiwong.

 Alysicarpus littoralis Satthaphorn & Leerat., sp. nov.

 Type: Thailand, Surat Thani, Ko Samui, Bo Phut, Ban Bo Phut, 20 m alt., 3 Jan. 2021, Leeratiwong 21-1634 (holotype PSU!; isotypes BKF!, KKU!). Figs. 1–2. 

Diagnosis.— Alysicarpus littoralis superficially resembles A. vaginalis in its herbaceous habit, unifoliolate leaves, pseudoracemose inflorescence, valvate calyx and erect loment pods (Fig. 3). However, A. littoralis is distinguishable by longer petiolules (1–1.5 mm long vs ca. 0.3 mm long in A. vaginalis), longer inflorescence internodes (8–12 mm long and lax-flowered vs 2–5 mm long and compact-flowered), longer calyx lobes (3–5 mm long vs 2.3–3 mm long), two-tone-coloured corolla (orangish-yellow standard but pink wings vs monotone-coloured-pink to purple in all petals) and moniliform pods with barrel shaped articles at maturity (vs terete pods with cylindrical articles).

Etymology.— The specific epithet refers to its habitat which can be found in coastal areas.

Vernacular.— Thua lisong na samui (ถั่วลิสงนาสมุย). 

Jiratthi Satthaphorn and Charan Leeratiwong. 2024. Alysicarpus littoralis, A New Species of Alysicarpus (Fabaceae) from Thailand. THAI JOURNAL OF BOTANY. 16 (1): 41–52.  

 www.QSBG.or.th/journal/showarticle_en.aspx?type=article&id=373

[Herpetology • 2024] Boulenophrys lichun • A New Boulenophrys Species (Anura: Megophryidae) from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China

Boulenophrys lichun 

Lin, Chen, Li, Peng, Zeng & Wang, 2024 

 

Lichun Horned Toad | 立春角蟾  ||  DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1216.130017

Abstract

A new species of the genus Boulenophrys is described from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China. The new taxon can be distinguished from all recognized congeners by a combination of discrete morphological character state differences and genetic divergences in the combined mitochondrial 16S + CO1 genes. We also provide a map showing the distribution pattern of Boulenophrys species in Fujian and a provincial-specific key, which will aid their conservation by helping the local authorities accurately identify species during field identifications and data collection efforts.

Key words: Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov., conservation actions, distribution pattern, diversity, Horned Toads, identification, new species, provincial key, taxonomy

Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov. in life
The male holotype (GEP a214, A–C) and the female paratype (GEP a215, D–F)  

 Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov.

Lichun Horned Toad (in English) 

 lì chūn jiǎo chán (立春角蟾 in Chinese)

Diagnosis: (1) small size (SVL 33.5–37.0 mm in five adult males, SVL 47.1 mm in a single adult female); (2) canthus rostralis well developed, tongue not notched posteriorly; (3) tympanum distinct; (4) vomerine ridges and vomerine teeth present; (5) dorsal skin rough and highly granular, discontinuous X-shaped ridge on center of dorsum, discontinuous dorsolateral ridges present, sparse large tubercles on flanks, dorsal limbs with discontinuous transverse ridges and tubercles, ventral skin with dense raised tubercles; (6) outer margin of upper eyelid with a small horn-like prominent tubercle, supratympanic fold distinct and narrow, curving posteroventrally to above arm; (7) two metacarpal tubercles distinct, inner one observably enlarged; relative finger lengths I < II < IV < III; distinct subarticular tubercle at base of each finger; (8) heels not meeting when hindlimbs folded; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching shoulder to posterior corner of eye; (9) toes without webbing and lateral fringes, inner metatarsal tubercle long ovoid, outer one absent, relative toe length I < II < V < III < IV; (10) dorsal surface yellowish-brown with irregular dark-brown patches, and dark-brown triangular marking between eyes, dorsal limbs and digits light brown with dark-brown transverse bands; and (11) dense nuptial spines on dorsal bases of fingers I and II in breeding adult males, subgular vocal sac present in males.

Etymology: The specific name lichun is derived from Chinese Pinyin Lì Chūn, i.e. 立春 in Chinese, which means the beginning of spring, the first of the 24 solar terms (24节气) of China. The specific name refers to the breeding season of the new species which begins around this period. The song of the new species heralds the spring of a year. The type specimens of the new species were also collected on “Lichun” of the Year 2024.

 Shi-Shi Lin, Hong-Hui Chen, Yuan-Hang Li, Zhao-Ning Peng, Zhao-Chi Zeng and Jian Wang. 2024. A New Boulenophrys Species (Anura, Megophryidae) from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China. ZooKeys. 1216: 1-15. DOI doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1216.130017

[Ichthyology • 2024] Chaetostoma sacramento • The Ornate Rubbernose Pleco (Siluriformes: Loricariidae: Chaetostoma), A New Species from the Ucayali River Basin, Peru

Chaetostoma sacramento 

 Meza-Vargas, Ramirez & Lujan, 2024 

 

DOI: 10.3897/zse.100.118522

Abstract

A new species in the rubbernose catfish genus Chaetostoma is described from the Aguaytia, Pisqui and Palcazu Rivers, which drain the Pampa de Sacramento Region in the Ucayali River drainage of central Peru. The new species is distinguished from congeners, except C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. leucomelas, C. microps, C. nudirostre, C. palmeri and C. thomsoni by having distinct, white, variably-shaped spots or vermiculations ½–2× nostril diameter on dark grey to black background on the head (vs. spots absent or black on light-coloured background). The new species is distinguished from C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. microps, C. nudirostre and C. thomsoni by having highly variable, distinct white spots, vermiculations or bands ½–10× nostril diameter on the body, from C. leucomelas by having dorsal and caudal fin indistinctly and variably-patterned with zero to four bands (vs. dorsal and caudal fin consistently having five or more uniform bands) and from C. palmeri by having two predorsal plates (vs. three), supraoccipital excrescence present (vs. absent) and pelvic-fin insertion slightly posterior to dorsal-fin insertion (vs. pelvic-fin insertion at middle of dorsal-fin base). Species delimitation analyses of the COI and Cytb genes further support the recognition of this new species.

Key Words: Amazon, Andes, Chaetostoma clade, freshwater, molecular, Neotropical, taxonomy

Live holotype of Chaetostoma sacramento MUSM 72045, 65.1 cm, collected from the Yamino River, a tributary of the Aguaytía River. Photos by D. Faustino.

 Chaetostoma sacramento sp. nov.

Chaetostoma sp. nov. Ucayali: Lujan et al. (2015b) [molecular phylogeny].

Diagnosis: Chaetostoma sacramento can be diagnosed from all congeners, except C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. leucomelas, C. microps, C. nudirostre, C. palmeri and C. thomsoni by having distinct, white, variably-shaped spots or vermiculations ½–2× nostril diameter on grey to brown background on the head (vs. spots absent or black on light-coloured background). Chaetostoma sacramento is distinguished from C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. nudirostre and C. thomsonii by having highly variable, small to large distinct white spots, vermiculations or bands on the body (vs. spots, vermiculations or bands absent or black on light-coloured background), from C. anomalum by having adipose fin fully formed (vs. rudimentary), from C. dorsale by having uniformly brown adipose fin (vs. adipose fin with black spot), from C. leucomelas by having golden spots across the dorsal fin rays (vs. light bands), from C. microps by having eight branched dorsal-fin rays (vs. nine), from C. nudirostre by having curved cheek odontodes (vs. strait), from C. palmeri by having two predorsal plates (vs. three), excrescence present (vs. absent) and pelvic-fin insertion slightly posterior of dorsal-fin insertion (vs. pelvic-fin insertion at middle of dorsal-fin base).

Etymology: The species epithet sacramento refers to the plain (pampa) in central Peru between the Huallaga and Ucayali Rivers, approximately delimited by the Pisqui River in the north and Palcazu River in the south. Chaetostoma sacramento is currently known exclusively from this region, known as the Pampa de Sacramento, which occupies a valley between Huánuco and Ucayali provinces that is part of the Peruvian subandean belt and surrounds Boqueron del Padre Abad in the Cordillera Azul. The Pampa de Sacramento was first encountered by Europeans on 21 June 1726, by an expedition led by Don Juan Nunez Lobo and was christened Pampa del Sacramento to commemorate the Catholic ceremony of the Corpus Christi. Subsequent Franciscan missionaries highlighted the rich ethnic diversity of this region (IBC 2016). A noun in apposition.

 Vanessa Meza-Vargas, Jorge L. Ramirez and Nathan K. Lujan. 2024. The Ornate Rubbernose Pleco (Siluriformes, Loricariidae, Chaetostoma), A New Species from the Ucayali River Basin, Peru. Zoosystematics and Evolution 100(4): 1387-1400. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.100.118522