[Herpetology • 2026] Jingophrys hrdy, J. tanogogo, J. taniitatii, ... • Two-fold hidden diversity of diminutive horned frogs (Anura: Megophryidae: Jingophrys) highlights overlooked in situ diversification in the Himalayas

 

Schematic comparison of external morphology of some Jingophrys species. 
 Jingophrys vegrandis group: (b) Jingophrys siangensis sp. nov., (c) Jingophrys tanogogo sp. nov., (d) J. vegrandis, (f) J. zhoui, (g) J. zhaoermii;
J. pachyproctus group: (h) Jingophrys hrdy sp. nov., (i) J. pachyproctus, (j) Jingophrys taniitatii sp. nov., (k) Jingophrys wularsoni sp. nov.

Garg, Biju, Tajo, Upadhyaya & Hanken, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1098/rsos.261030

 facebook.com/BijuSDas

Illustrations: S. D. Biju

 

Abstract

Jingophrys is a genus of Asian horned frogs known from six species with disjunct distributions in the Himalayas and Indo-Burma. By integrating evidence from molecular phylogeny, morphology and behaviour, we uncover five new species, recognize two distinct species groups, report two new country records for India and identify additional unnamed lineages. These additions constitute a seven-fold increase in the diversity of Indian Jingophrys and a more than two-fold increase for the genus overall. We also describe the first vocal repertoires of all eight Indian members, provide accounts of umbelliform tadpoles for three members and report a previously unknown snail-eating behaviour for the family Megophryidae. Present-day patterns of diversity and endemism may have been shaped by interplay between major rivers that subdivide the Eastern Himalayas from west to east and elevational range divergence at regional scales, which yields up to four congeners within a 10 km radius. The Himalayas are an overlooked and important centre of in situ diversification for frogs in the subfamily Megophryinae. Divergence timing, rapid diversification rates and biogeographical patterns across the large megophryine radiation are coincident with active Himalayan–Tibetan orogeny through the Late Oligocene and Miocene and intensification of the South Asian monsoon system starting around 10 Ma, in Late Miocene.

Keywords: amphibians, Asia, behaviour, biogeography, endemism, integrative taxonomy, Megophryidae, molecular evolution, new species, Northeast India

Schematic comparison of external morphology of all 11 recognized Jingophrys species.
  Jingophrys vegrandis group: (a, l) J. feii, (b, m) Jingophrys siangensis sp. nov., (c, n) Jingophrys tanogogo sp. nov., (d, o) J. vegrandis, (e, p) J. yeae, (f, q) J. zhoui, (g, r) J. zhaoermii; 
J. pachyproctus group: (h, s) Jingophrys hrdy sp. nov., (i, t) J. pachyproctus, (j, u) Jingophrys taniitatii sp. nov., (k, v) Jingophrys wularsoni sp. nov.
 In a–k, four features are arranged clockwise in each panel: skin granulations (body in dorsal view), colour and markings (body in ventral view), lateral markings and tubercles (head in lateral view) and snout shape (head in ventral view).
In l–v, aspects of foot morphology are arranged clockwise in each panel: webbing and dermal extensions on toes (ventral view), projection of tubercle on toe tip IV (lateral view) and skin extension along toe IV (cross section).

Illustrations: S. D. Biju.

Jingophrys vegrandis group:

J. feii, Jingophrys siangensis sp. nov., 

J. tanogogo sp. nov., J. vegrandis, J. yeae, 

J. zhoui, J. zhaoermii;

J. pachyproctus group:

Jingophrys hrdy sp. nov., J. pachyproctus,

  J. taniitatii sp. nov., J. wularsoni sp. nov.

Sonali Garg; S. D. Biju; Tage Tajo; Radhakrishna Upadhyaya K. and James Hanken. 2026. Two-fold hidden diversity of diminutive horned frogs (Megophryinae: Jingophrys) highlights overlooked in situ diversification in the Himalayas. R. Soc. Open Sci. 13 (11): 261030. DOI: doi.org/10.1098/rsos.261030 [11 Nov 2026]

 facebook.com/BijuSDas/posts/39751249394522711

 

[Botany • 2026] Cycas ammonitia (Cycadaceae) • A New Species from the Ammonite-rich semi-deciduous forests in Mindoro Island, Philippines

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis, 

in Agoo, Madulid et Linis, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.7751/telopea22599

Abstract

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis (Cycadaceae, Section Cycas, Subsection Rumphiae K.D.Hill) is described from Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. The species grows in seasonally dry semi-deciduous forests on steep ridges over calcareous soils derived from Jurassic ammonite-rich deposits of the Mansalay Formation. Morphologically, Cycas ammonitia resembles Cycas edentata de Laub. and Cycas nitida K.D.Hill & A.Lindstr. in having smooth sclerotesta and a spongy endotesta in the seeds. However, it is distinguished by its very short microsporophyll and megasporophyll apical spines and its unique inland habitat on ammonite-bearing rocks, unlike the coastal or littoral distribution of its relatives. A key to the Philippine species of Cycas subsection Rumphiae is provided.

Keywords: Cycas ammonitia, Cycadaceae, new species, Mindoro Island, Philippines, Subsection Rumphiae

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis, sp. nov.
A. Habit. B. Bark. C. Leaf. D. Part of a leaf showing petioles. E. Cross-section of a leaflet. F. Microsporangiate strobilus. G. Microsporophylls. H. Megasporophylls. I. Terminal lamina of megasporophylls. J. Seeds (en = endotesta; ga = gametophyte; sa = sarcotesta; sc = sclerotesta).

A – E and H–J from Agoo and N Rag-op 26-008 (PNH, DLSUH), F– G from Agoo and N Rag-op 26-009 (PNH, DLSUH). 

Scale bar: A = 1 m., B = 2 cm., C = 1 m., D = 10 cm., E = 1 cm., F = 30 cm., G = 3 cm., H = 20 cm., I = 5 cm., J = 3 cm.

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Similar to Cycas edentata and C. nitida in having smooth sclerotesta and a spongy endotesta of the seeds; but differ significantly by its very short microsporophyll apical spine (0.1–0.5 cm long) and megasporophyll apical spine (0.5–0.7 cm long) vs microsporophyll apical spine at least 0.9 cm long and megasporophyll apical spine 1.5–4 cm long in Cycas edentata and Cycas nitida and its unique habitat in a semi-deciduous forest near creeks over ammonite-bearing deposits.

Etymology: The specific epithet ammonitia refers to the ammonite fossil deposits found within the Mansalay Formation that are dated as Middle to Late Jurassic (Aurelio et al. 2012; Andal et al. 1968). The unique calcareous geological substrate, to which this species is restricted, highlights the intimate link between the plant’s edaphic niche and its speciation.

 Esperanza Maribel G. Agoo, Domingo A. Madulid and Virgilio Cutibar Linis. 2026. Cycas ammonitia (Cycadaceae), A New Species from the Ammonite-rich semi-deciduous forests in Mindoro Island, Philippines. Telopea. 30; 187–194. DOI: doi.org/10.7751/telopea22599 [2026-09-08]

[Entomology • 2026] Brachyscleroma chadchawanae, B. chavanichae, B. malaivijitnondae, B. suriyai, ... • Taxonomic Review of Brachyscleroma Cushman, 1940 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) including Eight New Species from India and Thailand

 

Brachyscleroma chavanichae; B. malaivijitnondae

in Ranjith, Quicke et Butcher, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.1 

  facebook.com/IIECECU

Abstract 

The sisyrostoline genus Brachyscleroma Cushman is reviewed from India and Thailand with the description of eight new species, one from India (B. suriyai sp. nov.) and seven from Thailand (B. chadchawanae sp. nov., B. chavanichae sp. nov., B. emmaolsenae sp. nov., B. livalvernae sp. nov., B. malaivijitnondae sp. nov., B. voraveehoveniae sp. nov. and B. vangnaiae sp. nov.). We report the genus from Thailand for the first time. The new species are fully described and illustrated photographically. A taxonomic key is provided for the extant species of the genus.

Hymenoptera, Sisyrostolinae, Oriental region, taxonomic key, Southeast Asia

Brachyscleroma chadchawanae sp. nov.

Brachyscleroma chavanichae sp. nov.

seven from Thailand: 

Brachyscleroma chadchawanae sp. nov., B. chavanichae sp. nov., B. emmaolsenae sp. nov., B. livalvernae sp. nov., B. malaivijitnondae sp. nov., B. voraveehoveniae sp. nov. and B. vangnaiae sp. nov.

Brachyscleroma malaivijitnondae sp. nov.

A.P. RANJITH, Donald L.J. QUICKE and Buntika A. BUTCHER. 2026. Taxonomic Review of Brachyscleroma Cushman, 1940 (Hymenoptera; Ichneumonidae) including Eight New Species from India and Thailand.  Zootaxa. 5862(2); 201-231. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.1 [2026-08-05]

  facebook.com/IIECECU/posts/1674105021385123

[Arachnida • 2025] Troglorhopalurus iuiu • Taxonomy and Distribution of the Cave-Dwelling Scorpions Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae), with the Description of a New Cave-Restricted Species

Habitus of live specimens of Troglorhopalurus,
including T. translucidus (A), T. lacrau (B–E), and T. iuiu n. sp. (F–H).
(A) Adult female from Gruta Rio dos Pombos cave, Andaraí;
(B) adult female from Lapa do Bode, Itaeté; (C) adult female from Gruta da Mangabeira cave, Ituaçu; (D) juvenile from Gruta Moreno cave, Nova Redenção; (E) juvenile from Gruta do Calixto, Iramaia;
Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. (F) adult female from Gruta do Sepultamento, Iuiú; (G) juvenile from Lapa do Baixão cave, Iuiú; (H) juvenile from Toca Fria cave, Iuiú. 

 Carvalho, Silva, de Souza & Ferreira, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda3020006 

Photos: L.S. Carvalho (A,B), R.L. Ferreira (C–H).

Abstract

The genus Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) is endemic to northeastern Brazil and comprises cave-dwelling species with limited distributions. Based on newly collected specimens, this study provides a description of a new cave-dwelling Troglorhopalurus species and the first detailed description of the male hemispermatophore of the genus. Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. is diagnosed based on morphometric characters, distinct carapace granulation, and differences in the pedipalps and metasomal carinae and peg sensillae shape. The hemispermatophore of Troglorhopalurus is like other Centruroidinae species, with internal, external, and basal lobes. Additionally, we discuss the distribution and conservation status of Troglorhopalurus species. Troglorhopalurus lacrau distribution range is extended based on additional epigean and hypogean records. This species may be reassessed from data deficient to least concern. Based on the limited localities and declining habitat quality, we propose that T. iuiu n. sp. be considered endangered. This research underscores the importance of further sampling to explore species-specific variations and promote conservation efforts for these ecologically specialized scorpions.

Keywords: Arachnida; Centruroidinae; taxonomy; hemispermatophore; conservation status

Habitus of live specimens of Troglorhopalurus, including T. translucidus (A), T. lacrau (B–E), and T. iuiu n. sp. (F–H).
(A) Adult female from Gruta Rio dos Pombos cave, Andaraí; (B) adult female from Lapa do Bode, Itaeté; (C) adult female from Gruta da Mangabeira cave, Ituaçu; (D) juvenile from Gruta Moreno cave, Nova Redenção; (E) juvenile from Gruta do Calixto, Iramaia; (F) adult female from Gruta do Sepultamento, Iuiú; (G) juvenile from Lapa do Baixão cave, Iuiú; (H) juvenile from Toca Fria cave, Iuiú.

 Photos: L.S. Carvalho (A,B), R.L. Ferreira (C–H).

Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. 

Diagnosis. Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. is most similar to T. lacrau. Both species share a light-brownish coloration in adult specimens, lack remarkably elongated pedipalps and metasoma segments, and have a rhomboid subaculear tubercle, distinguishing them from T. translucidus (Figure 1A). In T. translucidus, adults have a black base coloration, elongated pedipalps and metasomal segments, and spinoid subaculear tubercle (Figure 1A). Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. differs from T. lacrau by the following characteristics: (1) The carapace of T. iuiu n. sp. is mostly covered by fine granules (e.g., in the area between the anterior median and the anterior lateral carinae) and vestigial carinae (e.g., anterior central submedian, posterior central submedian, and posterior submedian carinae; Figure 2C,D), but coarse granules and well-marked carinae are found in ...

Leonardo Sousa Carvalho, Maria Idalete Lopes Silva, Priscila Emanuela de Souza and Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira. 2026. Taxonomy and Distribution of the Cave-Dwelling Scorpions Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones, Buthidae), with the Description of a New Cave-Restricted Species. Arthropoda. 3(2), 6. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda3020006 [7 April 2025]

[Crustacea • 2026] Lauriea aurea • A New Species of the squat lobster Genus Lauriea Baba, 1971 (Decapoda: Galatheidae) from Korea

Lauriea aurea 

 Lee & Park, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1297.209192 

Abstract

A new species of the galatheid squat lobster genus Lauriea Baba, 1971, Lauriea aurea sp. nov., is described from Korea based on a male specimen collected from an unidentified sponge at a depth of 35 m. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by the carpi of the third pereopods bearing six or seven spines along the extensor margin, the dactyli of pereopods 2–4 with a weak but distinct blunt protuberance on the flexor margin, and a live colour pattern characterised by yellow or green spots on the carapace and medial yellow spots on pleonal tergites 1–3. Pairwise uncorrected p-distances between the new species and its seven congeners ranged from 1.61–8.10% for 16S rRNA and 6.95–17.31% for cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, supporting the recognition of L. aurea sp. nov. as a distinct species.

Key words: Anomura, Galatheoidea, mitochondrial genes, morphology, systematics, West Pacific

Lauriea aurea sp. nov., male holotype, MABIK CR00261542, pcl 2.8 mm, dorsal view.

Lauriea aurea sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific name aurea is the feminine form of the Latin adjective aureus, meaning golden, and it refers to the subtle golden-yellow tint of the live colouration of the new species.

 Sang-Hui Lee and Jin-Ho Park. 2026. A New Species of the squat lobster Genus Lauriea Baba, 1971 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Galatheidae) from Korea. ZooKeys. 1297: 183-196. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1297.209192  [11 Nov 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Morinda coromandelica (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, India

 

 Morinda coromandelica Gopika, Senthilk. & V.P. Thomas,

in Gopika, Senthilkumar et Thomas, 2026. 

linkedin.com: Senthilkumar Umapathy 

Abstract

Morinda coromandelica Gopika, Senthilk. & V.P. Thomas (Rubiaceae) is described as a new species from the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, India. It morphologically resembles M. pubescens, but differs in having glabrous leaves with an acute base, shorter petioles, compressed peduncles and larger, glabrous flowers. A detailed description, illustration and colour photographs are presented along with information on its distribution and habitat.

 Morinda coromandelica Gopika, Senthilk. & V.P. Thomas, sp. nov.

Gopika G., Senthilkumar U. & Thomas V.P. 2026: Morinda coromandelica (Rubiaceae), A New

Species from the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, India. Ann. Bot. Fennici. 63: 293–297.  

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/senthilkumar-umapathy-68a82943_paulwilson-ugcPost-7525798817762492416-WqTM/

[Botany • 2026] Cynorkis hasinai (Orchidaceae: Orchidioideae: Habenariinae) • A New Species from Madagascar

Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, 

in Hervouet et Ranaivo, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a14

 

 Abstract  

A new species of Orchidaceae, Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov., discovered in the north of Madagascar, is described and assigned to section Parviflorae. It has a very distinctive uppermost 5-lobed lip and the closest species is Cynorkis schlechteri H.Perrier.

KEYWORDS: Madagascar, Cynorkis, new species, Madagascar, Cynorkis, new species

Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov. Montagne d'Ambre National Park,
rachis, 4 April 2024.  

 front view of lip, 29 February 2020. 

side view of ovary and flower, 29 February 2020.

Photograph by Jean-Michel Hervouet. Scale bar: 5 mm.

Family Orchidaceae Juss.

Sub-family Orchidoideae A.A. Eaton

Tribe Orchideae (Dressler & Dodson) Verm.

Subtribe Habenariinae sensu Ngugi et al. 2020

Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. — This species belongs to the group of section Parviflorae species with inversed flowers. It differs from all other species by its 5-lobed lip with two very prominent upward 5 mm long intermediate lobes. Four other species in the section have inversed flowers and 5-lobed lip: Cynorkis quinqueloba H.Perrier ex Hermans, has intermediate lobes at least half the size of the middle lobe; Cynorkis quinquepartita has basal lobes bigger than the intermediate lobes but a little smaller than the middle one; Cynorkis verrucosa Bosser has much smaller intermediate lobes and the zone between the two basal lobes is verrucose. Cynorkis schlechteri H.Perrier is the closest species, with the intermediate lobes also the most prominent, but it is a much smaller plant (maximum 25 cm versus 42 cm for C. hasinai sp. nov.), with smaller flowers, the intermediate lobes being 3 mm long at most, versus 5 mm for C. hasinai sp. nov. The lip colour is light pink and white (versus dark red and white for C. hasinai sp. nov.). The flowering seasons are different (August-September for C. schlechteri, March-April for C. hasinai sp. nov.). The altitudes are different (0-800 m for C. schlechteri versus around 1200 m for C. hasinai sp. nov.).

Etymology. — The species is dedicated to Rakotobe Hasimbola Joelina, known as Hasina. He has been since 2017 our guide, driver and dear friend. He is an ardent orchid enthusiast and an outstanding prospector with a very keen eye. We owe him a lot of discoveries and he was able, with his son Landry in February 2020, after extensively scouting the place, to find one plant in flower among many others which were only in bud.

Liparis chantaliae Hermans & Hervouet, side by side with Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov.
Montagne d'Ambre National Park, 4 April 2024.

Photograph by Jean-Michel Hervouet.

Jean-Michel Hervouet and Jaona Ranaivo. 2026. Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov. (Orchidaceae, Orchidioideae, Habenariinae), A New Species from Madagascar [une nouvelle espèce de Madagascar]. Adansonia. 48(14), 151-158. DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a14 (15 July 2026) 

Une nouvelle espèce d'Orchidaceae, Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov. découverte dans le nord de Madagascar est décrite et attribuée à la section Parviflorae. Elle possède un remarquable labelle supère pentalobé. L'espèce la plus proche est Cynorkis schlechteri H.Perrier.

[Herpetology • 2026] Zhangixalus matsuii • A New Species of Zhangixalus (Anura: Rhacophoridae) from Lao Cai Province, Vietnam

Zhangixalus matsuii 

Ninh, Hoang, Orlov, Ichioka, Ziegler & Nguyen, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1294.203393

Abstract

A new treefrog species, Zhangixalus matsuii sp. nov., is described from Y Ty Commune, Lao Cai Province, northwestern Vietnam. The new species is diagnosed by the following characteristics: size medium (SVL 35.5–37.6 mm in males); dorsum olive green with many brown spots; axilla and groin grey with cream spots along flank; throat cream with grey spots; belly and ventral surface of hind limbs red-orange. The genetic distance between the new species and other species of Zhangixalus ranges from 2.5% to 12.9% (16S rRNA gene fragment). The new discovery brings the species number of Zhangixalus in Vietnam to 11.

Key words: Genetic divergence, green treefrogs, northwestern Vietnam, Zhangixalus matsuii sp. nov.

Adult male holotype (IB A.6585) of Zhangixalus matsuii sp. nov. from Y Ty Commune, Lao Cai Province, northwestern Vietnam in life.
A. Dorsal view; B. lateral view; C. ventral view; D. ventral side of right foot; E. ventral side of right hand.

Zhangixalus matsuii sp. nov.

 Hoa Thi Ninh, Chung Van Hoang, Nikolai Orlov, Yukio Ichioka, Thomas Ziegler and Tao Thien Nguyen. 2026. A New Species of Zhangixalus (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from Lao Cai Province, Vietnam. ZooKeys. 1294: 109-130. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1294.203393 [06 Oct 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Dendrelaphis beddomei • A New Species of Dendrelaphis (Serpentes: Colubridae) from the Western Ghats, related to D. grandoculis, with a revised Identification Key to southern Indian species

Dendrelaphis beddomei 

Ganesh, Poornaprajna, Mallik & Vogel, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.47605/tapro.v15i2.436
 Researchgate.net/publication/417774110

We describe a new species of the genus Dendrelaphis from the Western Ghats of India. This species has previously been confused with the poorly known endemic species Dendrelaphis grandoculis. We redescribe and illustrate D. grandoculis based on its lectotype, paralectotypes, and both historical and recent materials. We re-diagnose D. grandoculis sensu stricto by describing the new species Dendrelaphis beddomei sp. nov. This new species mainly inhabits the low-elevation windward slopes of the Western Ghats. We describe it based on two type specimens and a few live, uncollected individuals, supported by citizen-science photo posts. It is differentiated from D. grandoculis by its much higher subcaudal count, red tongue, longer loreal, smaller 2nd postocular, and frequent presence of a white ventrolateral stripe as well as bold black dorsal blotches.

Dendrelaphis beddomei sp. nov.

Dendrelaphis beddomei

Beddome’s Bronzeback

Dendrelaphis grandoculis (Boulenger, 1890)

Dendrelaphis grandoculis (Boulenger, 1890)

S.R. Ganesh, Poornaprajna S N, Ashok Kumar Mallik and Gernot Vogel. 2026. A New Species of Dendrelaphis (Serpentes: Colubridae) from the Western Ghats, related to D. grandoculis, with a revised Identification Key to southern Indian species. TAPROBANICA The Journal of Asian Biodiversity. 15(2); DOI: doi.org/10.47605/tapro.v15i2.436 [12 November 2026]

 Researchgate.net/publication/417774110_A_New_Species_of_Dendrelaphis_from_the_Western_GHATS_INDIA

facebook.com/AshokKumarMallik.492415/posts/29737570052501755

 

[Botany • 2026] Dombeya boulletiana (sect. Dombeyastrum; Malvaceae) • A New Species from Mayotte and A Synopsis of Dombeya Cav. (Malvaceae) from the Comoros

 

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, 

in Le Péchon, Dimassi et Pignal, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a17 

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M. Pignal, sp. nov., is described from Mayotte. The species is assigned to Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum Planch. It is currently known from a single locality on Mlima Choungui. Morphologically, it is close to D. rottleroides Baill., although it is placed, in a provisional phylogenetic framework, alongside D. cacuminum Hochr. An identification key to the species of Mayotte and the Comoros is provided in French and English. The conservation status of the species occurring in Mayotte and the Comoros is assessed following IUCN criteria. Lectotypifications are provided for D. cacuminum Hochr., D. polyphylla K.Schum., D. rosacea Arènes, D. rottleroides Baill. and D. viburniflora Bojer.

KEYWORDS: MALVACEAE, Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum, Planchon Mayotte, Comoros Archipelago, IUCN Redlist status, lectotypifications, new species

Famille Malvaceae Juss.

Sous-famille Dombeyoideae Beilsch.

Genre Dombeya Cav.

Section Dombeyastrum Planchon

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov. (A. Dimassi 171):
A, rameau feuillé; B, limbe face adaxiale et détail face abaxiale; C, rameau fleuri; D, inflorescence jeune; E, fleur; F, sépale; G, pétale; H, androcée et gynécée; I, tube staminal déroulé, face extérieure; J, pistil.

Échelles: A-C, 10 mm; D-H, 2 mm. Dessin: Ludivine Longou.

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov. (A. Dimassi 171):
A, plante dans son milieu; B, jeune pousse; C, feuille, limbe face adaxiale; D, feuille, limbe face abaxiale; E, détail pétiole et stipules; F, pétiole apex, zone pileuse; G, pétiole partie médiane glabre; H, stipules subulées, détail; I, inflorescence en boutons; J, inflorescence épanouie; K, calice détail (sur inflorescence en bouton); L, fleur à l'anthèse.

Photos: A. Dimassi.

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. — D. rottleroidi affinis, sed habitu fruticoso (vs arboreo), lamina late ovata, tricuspidataque (vs ovata acuminataque), serrulata margine (vs integra ad sinuata), lamina facie abaxiali ad basin nervorum indumento instructa (vs glabra), cyma leviter contracta (vs laxa), c. 10 cm longa, (2-) 3-6 (-14)-flora (vs > 20 cm longa, multiflora), bracteis persistentibus, ovatis (vs caducis, anguste triangularibus), petalis albido-roseis, c. 10 × 10 mm (vs roseis vel rubris, 11-15 × 9-15 mm), praecipue differt.

Étymologie. — Cette espèce est dédiée à Vincent Boullet (1956-2024), botaniste et phytosociologue reconnu qui a très largement contribué à la connaissance de la flore et des habitats des territoires de l'Océan Indien (Muller et al. 2024).

 

Timothée Le Péchon, Abassi Dimassi and Marc Pignal. 2026. Une espèce nouvelle de Mayotte et un synopsis des Dombeya Cav. (Malvaceae) dans l'archipel des Comores [A New Species from Mayotte and A Synopsis of Dombeya Cav. (Malvaceae) from the Comoros]. Adansonia. 48(17); 185-196. DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a17 (10 September 2026) 

 

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov. est décrite de Mayotte. L'espèce appartient à Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum Planchon. Elle n'est actuellement connue que d'un seul site, situé au Mlima Choungui. Elle se rapproche morphologiquement de D. rottleroides Baillon, bien qu'elle se place dans une phylogénie provisoire aux côtés de D. cacuminum Hochr. Une clé d'identification des espèces de Mayotte et des Comores est donnée en français et en anglais. Le statut de conservation selon l'UICN est évalué pour les espèces présentes à Mayotte et aux Comores. Des lectotypifications sont également fournies pour D. cacuminum Hochr., D. polyphylla K.Schum., D. rosacea Arènes, D. rottleroides Baill. et D. viburniflora Bojer.

MALVACEAE, Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum, Planchon, Mayotte, archipel des Comores, statut liste rouge UICN, lectotypifications, espèce nouvelle

[Botany • 2026] Oxygyne myanmarensis (Thismiaceae) • A New Species from Myanmar: Bridging the disjunct distribution between Africa and Japan

 

Oxygyne myanmarensis  Nob.Tanaka & Paing,

in Tanaka, Paing et Aung, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.782.3.8

Abstract

A new species of Oxygyne (Thismiaceae), O. myanmarensis Nob.Tanaka & Paing, is described from Myanmar. The genus Oxygyne was previously known only from southern Japan and central Africa, exhibiting a striking disjunct distribution. This discovery is also the first to demonstrate that the genus also occurs in Southeast Asia, bridging the gap between these two regions.

Monocots, Oxygyne myanmarensis, Thismiaceae, Myanmar, mycoheterotrophic plants

Oxygyne myanmarensis
A. Natural habitat. B. Flower viewed from above. C. Habit. D. a: Flower with part of the perianth tube removed to expose the androecium. b: Stamen. c: Pistil. E. Ovary, longitudinal (a) and transverse (b) sections to show placentation.

Scale bars: 1 cm (C, D-a), 1 mm (D-b, c, E).

Oxygyne myanmarensis Nob.Tanaka & Paing, sp. nov. 

 Type:—MYANMAR. Kayin State: Paung Daw Oo Mountain, ...

 Oxygyne myanmarensis is like O. shinzatoi in having a campanulate perianth tube, long filiform perianth lobes and filaments with calluslike clusters but differs by its brownish orange perianth tube, stigma with a triangled head prolonged into an erect conical projection and papillate anther. 

NOBUYUKI TANAKA, CHIT SOE PAING and MU MU AUNG. 2026. A New Species, Oxygyne myanmarensis (Thismiaceae), from Myanmar: Bridging the disjunct distribution between Africa and Japan.  Phytotaxa. 782(3);297-300. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.782.3.8 [2026-10-30]

[Botany • 2026] Petalidium matupaense (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Angola

 

Petalidium matupaense Swanepoel & A.E.van Wyk,

in Swanepoel et van Wyk, 2026.   

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.784.2.4 

Abstract

Petalidium matupaense, first collected in May 2019, is here described as a new species. It is a range-restricted species, only known from the mountainous region bordering the Cunene River in southwestern Angola in the Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism. The species grows amongst boulders on hillsides of the Kunene Igneous Complex, along ephemeral riverbeds and in intermontane valleys. Diagnostic characters for P. matupaense include its slender stems and the dense white indumentum of mainly short-stalked dendritic trichomes on the vegetative parts (glabrescent with age) and inflorescences, giving a matted appearance. The flowers are distinctive in having all lobes similarly coloured adaxially, carmine, peach, vermillion (orange-red), or mauve, the anterior lobe with two yellow narrowly triangular nectar guides, and all lobes discolorous in being abaxially paler or cream-brown. A comparison of key morphological features distinguishing Petalidium matupaense from P. cirrhiferum and P. sebrabergense, its morphologically most similar relatives, is provided. Based on IUCN Red List criteria, the species is provisionally assessed as Endangered (EN).

Eudicots, Cunene Province, endemism, Kunene Anorthosite Complex, Oncocua, Ruellieae, Serra Matupa, taxonomy, ultramafic rocks, Zebra Mountains

Petalidium matupaense.
A, B. Flowering shoots with foliaceous bracts, bracteoles and flowers; axes and bracts densely clothed in a white, matted indumentum. C. Mature foliage leaves becoming glabrescent and appearing greenish in contrast to the dense whitish indumentum of a flowering shoot bearing foliaceous bracts and persistent bracteoles.

Photographs by W. Swanepoel.

Petalidium matupaense. Morphology of flowers.
A–C. Flowers in front view. Colour of corolla lobes varies adaxially: carmine, peach, vermillion (orange-red), or mauve. D. Flower with bracteole in side view. Corolla lobes abaxially paler or cream-brown. E. Flower and bracteoles viewed from below. F. Flower in oblique side view, with leaves, foliaceous bracts, and bracteoles; note dense white indumentum of leaves and bracts.

Photographs by W. Swanepoel.

Petalidium matupaense. Habitat and habit.
A. Dwarf shrub ca. 900 mm tall with long, slender stems. B. Dwarf shrub with flowers ca. 700 mm tall, growing among dark leucotroctolite rocks in a seasonal drainage line; distal flower-bearing stem portions with foliaceous bracts and appear white due to a dense, matted indumentum consisting predominantly of short-stalked dendritic trichomes. C. Dwarf shrub ca. 700 mm tall with mostly older glabrescent leaves, growing in whitish anorthosite-derived soil.

Photographs by W. Swanepoel.

Petalidium matupaense Swanepoel & A.E.van Wyk, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis:—A woody dwarf shrub up to 1.2 m tall, morphologically most similar to Petalidium cirrhiferum and P. sebrabergense, differing by having the indumentum on new vegetative growth and inflorescences similar, matted (vs. indumentum on vegetative parts and inflorescences dissimilar [P. cirrhiferum & P. sebrabergense], matted or floccose [P. cirrhiferum], scattered [P. sebrabergense]), mainly consisting of dendritic trichomes (P. matupaense & P. cirrhiferum) (vs. mainly consisting of stalked glandular trichomes [P. sebrabergense]); bracteoles with all dendritic trichomes short-stalked, not visible to the naked eye (vs. some very long-stalked, up to 5 mm long, clearly visible to the naked eye [P. cirrhiferum]); flowers with corolla lobes adaxially carmine, peach, vermillion (orangered) or mauve (vs. heliotrope, magenta or purple-red [P. cirrhiferum], lilac or mauve [P. sebrabergense]).

Etymology:—The specific epithet refers to Serra Matupa [Matupa Mountain] in southwestern Angola, which is the type locality. 

WESSEL SWANEPOEL and ABRAHAM E. VAN WYK. 2026. Petalidium matupaense (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Angola. Phytotaxa. 784(2); 188-200. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.784.2.4 [2026-11-12]