[Mammalogy • 2026] Glauconycteris baka & G. lobeke • An Integrated Taxonomic and Conservation Assessment of Glauconycteris (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in Cameroon, with the Description of Two New Species from the Northwestern Congolian Lowland Forest

A. Glauconycteris lobeke sp. nov., ♂, holotype, Djombi village, LNP;
B. G. beatrix, ♂, Pont cassé platform, LNP; 
 C. G. baka sp. nov., ♂, holotype, Mambele village, LNP. 

Gomeh-Djame, Bates, Juste, Suarez-Rubio, Torrent, García-Mudarra, Ayangma, Yettore, Bilong & Bakwo-Fils, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1282.183038

Not to scale.

Abstract 

The genus Glauconycteris (Vespertilionidae) comprises small, forest-dependent bats distributed across sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its distinctive morphology, the genus remains poorly represented in collections and its taxonomy unresolved. During recent field surveys in southeastern Cameroon, ten Glauconycteris specimens were collected from the Northwestern Congolian Lowland Forest, eight from Lobéké National Park (LNP) and two from the Dja Biosphere Reserve (DBR). Morphometric and molecular analyses assigned these specimens to eight species, including representatives of three species groups (poensis, beatrix, and humeralis). One species, G. superba, is recorded for the first time from Cameroon and two are described herein as new to science, Glauconycteris baka sp. nov. and Glauconycteris lobeke sp. nov. These findings increase the total number of recognised Glauconycteris species to 15 and confirm that G. beatrix, as previously understood, represents a species complex, revealing further cryptic diversity within the genus. By combining taxonomic, ecological, and distributional data, our results indicate that most members of the genus tolerate moderate habitat degradation and that all 11 species recorded from Cameroon occur within or adjacent to at least one protected area. This study provides the first integrated taxonomic assessment of Glauconycteris in Cameroon, refines species distributions, and contributes additional ecological data for three species (G. gleni, G. egeria, and G. curryae) currently listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List. Our findings underscore the importance of continued sampling in the Guineo-Congolian region to better inform the conservation of Africa’s forest-dependent bats.

Key words: Conservation status, cryptic diversity, forest dependent bats, Guineo-Congolian region, integrative taxonomy, molecular phylogenetics

Three small, morphologically similar species of Glauconycteris from Cameroon with dark pelage and wings, a pale shoulder spot and no lateral stripe shown at an enlarged scale to highlight diagnostic external characters. Ventral/lateral views above, dorsal view below.
A. G. lobeke sp. nov., ♂, holotype, AD.2023.11.19.151, Djombi village, LNP; B. G. beatrix, ♂, AD.2023.11.25.182, Pont cassé platform, LNP; C. G. baka sp. nov., ♂, holotype, AD.2023.07.18.18, Mambele village, LNP.  Not to scale.

Additional species of Glauconycteris recorded in Cameroon, illustrating broader variation in size and pelage across the genus. Species order follows Table 1.
A. Glauconycteris superba, ♂, Mes 26, Mba’a village, DBR; B. G. gleni, ♂, (subadult), AD.2024.22.05.222, Yenga fishing site, LNP; C. G. variegata, ♂, AD.2024.Z73, Zega village, LNP;
D. G. argentata, ♂, Mbouroukou école publique, Mount Manengouba National Park; E. G. curryae, ♂, AD.2023.11.25.181, Pont cassé platform, LNP. The focal, closely related species are illustrated at larger scale in Fig. 3. Not to scale.

 

Glauconycteris baka sp. nov.  

Etymology. The species is named in honour of the Baka people, who live in and around LNP, and who have a close relationship with the forest and its wildlife. The name was discussed with members of the local community, including through park rangers, and was positively received, with community members expressing pride in the association. The proposed French name is ‘Chauve-souris papillon Baka’ and the proposed English name is ‘Baka butterfly bat’.

Glauconycteris lobeke sp. nov. 

Etymology. The species is named after Lobéké National Park, where the individuals were captured. We wish to draw attention to the important role the park can play in protecting a highly diverse fauna of Congolian forest bats, including new and rare species. The proposed French name is ‘Chauve-souris papillon de Lobéké’ and the proposed English name is ‘Lobéké butterfly bat’.

 Aicha Gomeh-Djame, Paul J. J. Bates, Javier Juste, Marcela Suarez-Rubio, Laura Torrent, Juan Luis García-Mudarra, Eugenie Agodigo Ayangma, Félécité Yettore, Charles Félix Bilong Bilong and Eric-Moise Bakwo-Fils. 2026. An Integrated Taxonomic and Conservation Assessment of Glauconycteris (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in Cameroon, with the Description of Two New Species from the Northwestern Congolian Lowland Forest. ZooKeys. 1282: 161-204. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1282.183038 [15 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Sonerila namii (Melastomataceae: Sonerileae) • A New Species from Central Highlands, Vietnam

 

Sonerila namii  C. H. Nguyen, Aver. & C. W. Lin, 

in Nguyen, Averyanov et Lin. 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.29.2.11 

 facebook.com/Darthvaderiana 

Abstract

A new species, Sonerila namii, is described from Gia Lai Province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The new species shares several morphological similarities with S. repens but differs in having a stem covered with golden-brown to maroon hispid or hispid-hirsute hairs (vs. white woolly), a leaf blade bearing white hirsute or gland-tipped hirsute hairs on both surfaces (vs. pubescent with simple hairs), about 6 pairs of secondary veins (vs. 2 or 3 pairs), a hypanthium with white hispid or gland-tipped hispid hairs and minute glandular trichomes (vs. woolly simple hairs), and petals up to 2.3 cm long (vs. up to 1.2 cm). According to the IUCN criteria, it may tentatively be assessed as Least Concern (LC).

Keywords: endemism, flora of Vietnam, Melastomataceae tribe Sonerileae, plant diversity, plant taxonomy

Sonerila namii:
 A – habit; B, B’ – portions of leaf, adaxial and abaxial surfaces; C, D, E – indumentum of reproductive structures: C – villous-hirsute or gland-tipped hirsute indumentum on leaf, D – minutely glandular trichomes on vegetative parts, E – gland-tipped hispid on hypanthium and abaxially of petals; F, F’ – flower, frontal and side views; G, G’ – stamens, frontal and side views; H – hypanthium; I – longitudinal section of ovary.

Drawing by Che Wei Lin from the holotype NHC-20251015010.

Sonerila namii:
A – habit and habitat; B – habit; C – flowering branch; D – leaves; E – portions of leaf, adaxial surface; F – same, abaxial surface; G – hypanthium, petals, stamens, and styles; H – longitudinal section of ovary; I – longitudinal section of immature fruit; J – cross section of immature fruit.

Photos A by Tinh Van Lam; photos B – J by Cuong Huu Nguyen of plants used for the preparation of type herbarium specimen NHC-20251015010.

Sonerila namii C. H. Nguyen, Aver. et C. W. Lin, sp. nov. 

Etymology. The specific epithet honors a postgraduate student from Vietnam National Forestry University, Duong Van Nam, who collected and provided specimens of this new species. 

 

Cuong H. Nguyen, Leonid V. Averyanov and Che W. Lin. 2026. Sonerila namii (Melastomataceae, Sonerileae), A New Species from Central Highlands, Vietnam. Turczaninowia. 29(2); 110–115. 

DOI: doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.29.2.11 

 facebook.com/Darthvaderiana/posts/10233777096872711

[Ichthyology • 2026] Rakthamichthys anchi • A New Species of phreatobitic synbranchid eel (Synbranchiformes: Synbranchidae) from Assam, India

 

Rakthamichthys anchi 

Britz, Pinion, Marak, Velentina & Lokeshwor, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5857.3.3

Abstract

Rakthamichthys anchi, a new species of phreatobitic synbranchid is described from wells in a small village in Goalpara District, Assam, Northeast India. It is distinguished from the northeastern Indian R. rongsaw, and the Western Ghats congeners R. roseni, R. digressus, and R. mumba by absence of lateral-line canal pores in the frontal. From R. roseni, R. digressus, and R. mumba, it is further distinguished by more preanal vertebrae (90–100 vs. 76–88 in) and from R. indicus by more vertebrae (159 vs.162–169). It is also distinguished from the Western Ghats species by an uncorrected p-distance of ~15–20% in the barcoding gene. From R. roseni, the only Western Ghats species for which detailed osteological information is available, R. anchi is distinguished by several anatomical characters. The discovery of R. anchi from wells in the same village in which Gitchak nakana Britz et al. [2026] was recently described highlights the presence of a formerly unknown and highly dynamic subterranean habitat: the groundwater aquifers in alluvial deposits in northeast India.

Pisces, swamp eels, groundwater, well, subterranean fishes, micro-CT, skeleton

Ralf BRITZ, Amanda K. PINION, Wimarithy K. MARAK, Kangjam VELENTINA and Yumnam LOKESHWOR. 2026. Rakthamichthys anchi, A New Species of phreatobitic synbranchid eel from Assam.  Zootaxa. 5857(3); 462-482. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5857.3.3 [2026-07-30]

[Herpetology • 2026] Nanlingophis nvwa • A New Genus and Species of Dipsadidae (Reptilia: Serpentes) from Guangdong and Hunan Provinces in Southern China

  

Nanlingophis nvwa Chen, Zhang, & Chen, 

in H.-L. Chen, Zhang, G.-X. Liu, Z.-F.Liu, Kwok, Vogel, Wang, Wu and Z.-N. Chen, 2026. 

Nvwa slender snake | 女娲纤蛇  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5849.2.5

Abstract  

Nanlingophis nvwa gen. et sp. nov., a new genus and species of the family Dipsadidae, has been identified based on a specimen collected from Tianjingshan National Forest Park in Guangdong Province, southern China. Nanlingophis is assigned to Dipsadidae based on its phylogenetic placement, currently monotypic and it is diagnosed by the following combination of characters: body slender; tail long, TaL/TL 0.314; dorsal scales smooth, rhomboid and juxtaposed, in 13 rows throughout the body; ventrals 163; anal shield divided; subcaudals paired, 110+1 pairs; supralabials 5/5, with the 3rd and 4th entering the orbit; infralabials 5/5; suboculars absent; loreal single and crescent-shaped; temporals 1+1+2; rostral not dorsally recurved; anterior nasal plates not expanded; dorsum yellowish brown, each scale edged dark brown to blackish and forming a reticulate pattern. This combination of characters distinguishes the new genus from all superficially similar genera, especially Stichophanes, Thermophis, Dipsas, Pareas and Aplopeltura.

 Reptilia, Dipsadidae, morphology, molecular phylogeny, taxonomy, Nanlingophis nvwa gen. et. sp. nov

Nanlingophis nvwa sp. nov. in life found in Tianjingshan National Forest Park, Guangdong, China

Genus Nanlingophis Chen, Zhang, & Chen gen. nov. 

Etymology. The genus name Nanlingophis is a combination of the geographic name “Nanling” (referring to the type locality) and suffix “-ophis” (όφις) meaning snake in Greek. The name is treated as masculine in gender.  

Preserved holotype of Nanlingophis nvwa sp. nov. (GXNU2025101605).
A Dorsal view. B Ventral view. Scalebar = 10 mm. Details of the middle section. C Dorsal view, D Lateral view, E Ventral view. F–G: Ventral view of the tail.

Scale bar = 2 mm. 

Nanlingophis nvwa sp. nov. Chen, Zhang, & Chen 

Common English Name: Nvwa slender snake.

Common Chinese Name: 女娲纤蛇 (nǚ wā xiān shé).

Etymology: The specific epithet nvwa is derived from “Nüwa”, a significant deity in Chinese mythology traditionally revered as the creator and protector of life. This is nomenclature was selected to honor the cultural heritage of theYao people residing in the autonomous county where the type specimen was discovered, as some members of thiscommunity trace their ancestry to Nüwa. The nearby Mangshan Yao communities traditionally venerate snakes,a symbol closely linked to Nüwa in folklore. The epithet is used as a nominative noun in apposition and remainsindeclinable. 

 

HUI-LING CHEN, LIANG ZHANG, GUO-XIONG LIU, ZHI-FA LIU, CHI-TAI KWOK, GERNOT VOGEL, JIA-YING WANG, ZHENG-JUN WU and ZE-NING CHEN. 2026. A New Genus and Species of Dipsadidae (Reptilia: Squamata: Serpentes) from Guangdong and Hunan Provinces in Southern China.  Zootaxa. 5849(2); 213-226. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5849.2.5 [2026-07-13]

 Researchgate.net/publication/409205318_A_new_genus_and_species_of_Dipsadidae_from_Guangdong_and_Hunan_Provinces_in_Southern_China

[Botany • 2026] Strobilanthes grandidentata (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India

 

Strobilanthes grandidentata S.Chowdhury, B.Hajong & P.Bharali,   

 in Chowdhury, Hajong, Wood et Bharali, 2026.   

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2192

Abstract

Strobilanthes grandidentata, a new species from the Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, is described and illustrated. A detailed discussion of its morphological similarities and dissimilarities with closely allied taxa is provided. It is accompanied by photographs, as well as notes on distribution, habitat and conservation status. The new species is assigned as ‘Data Deficient’ (DD) following the IUCN (2024) guidelines.

Keyword: Dibang Valley, Eastern Himalaya, Goldfussia, Mishmi Hills, Strobilanthes pentastemenoides, Strobilanthes sumatrana

Strobilanthes grandidentata sp. nov.
A. Habit, B. Leaf, C. Inflorescence, D. Flower bud, E. Bract, F. Bracteoles, G. Calyx, H. Split-open corolla, I. Androecium, J. Gynoecium, K. Stigma, L. Ovary. Photos by Sambit Chowdhury

Strobilanthes grandidentata S.Chowdhury, B.Hajong & P.Bharali, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: A very distinctive new species that has the diagnostic “Goldfussia” androecium in which the anthers are suborbicular to ellipsoid with the shorter (inner) pair incurved. The form of its inflorescence suggests an affinity with species with a similar capitellate inflorescence such as Strobilanthes pentastemenoides (Nees) T.Anderson but the persistent, green herbaceous bracts and presence of bracteoles (vs. bracts caducous, near colourless, scarious and bracteoles absent) are very different. Morphologically it is perhaps closest to the Sumatran species, S. sumatrana Miq., in its corolla size and indumentum, calyx size and indumentum and the shape of its bracts but is readily distinguished by the presence of bracteoles (vs. absent) and persistent bracts (vs. caducous). The new species is also distinctive in its apparently unique shiny leaves with brochidodromous venation, oblique base, large marginal teeth and winged petiole.

Sambit Chowdhury, Bipankar Hajong, John Richard Ironside Wood and Pankaj Bharali. 2026. Strobilanthes grandidentata (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India.  Taiwania. 71(3); 483-487 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.483  [2026 May 25]

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2192

[Botany • 2026] Lepidagathis argentea (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Thailand, and Updated Synopsis Lepidagathis of Thailand

Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar., 

 

in Kantachot et Chantaranothai, 2026.

สังกรณีเงิน  |  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.07 

Abstract

In this synopsis of the genus Lepidagathis for the Flora of Thailand, nine species are recognized. This includes Lepidagathis argentea, a new species collected from limestone bedrock in Tak Province, and three species newly recorded for Thailand, L. dulcis, L. purpuricaulis and L. thorelii. Lepidagathis chiengmaiensis and L. thyrsiflora, are reduced to synonyms of L. incurva and L. fasciculata, respectively. The following names have been lectotypified: Lepidagathis chiengmaiensis, L. chlorostachya, L. dissimilis, L. dulcis, L. falcata and L. thorelii. A genus description with key to species, nomenclatural notes, distributional data and specimens examined are provided.

Keywords: Lamiales, lectotype, new record, new species, taxonomy

Drawing of Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar.
 A. habit, B. inflorescence with flowers, C. external surface of calyx, D. bracteoles, E. sterile bracts, F. gynoecium, G. fertile bracts, H. flower, J. capsule and seeds, K. seed and embryo.

Drawn from Kladwong & Kantachot 2025-1 (KKU) by K. Tuanku.

Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar.
A. habitat, B. habit, C.-D. inflorescences with flowers.

Photos by P. Kladwong, W. Kiewbang and S. Suddee.

Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar., sp. nov.

Chortip Kantachot and Pranom Chantaranothai. 2026. Lepidagathis (Acanthaceae) of Thailand: New Species and Updated Synopsis. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany), 54(2), 64–75. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.07  [2026-07-02] 

[Botany • 2026] Pterolepis arenacea (Melastomataceae: Melastomateae) • A New Species from the Brazilian Cerrado

Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim.,

 in Silva, Figueira, Schindler, Simon et Guimarães, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2140

Abstract

Pterolepis arenacea is described and illustrated as a new species to the Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins and its  surroundings, in the Brazilian states of Bahia and Tocantins. This species is restricted to microhabitats of sandstone outcrops surrounded by savanna vegetation. Pterolepis arenacea is the first known species of the genus exhibiting a dorsal appendage on the stamens. Morphologically, Pterolepis arenacea is most similar to species of the P. polygonoides complex, composed of P. polygonoides, P. saturejiformis and P. trimera. Furthermore, Pterolepis arenacea shares vegetative similarities with the  haplostemonous species P. haplostemona and P. xaxa. Detailed line drawings, field photographs, and scanning electron microscopy images are provided. The conservation status of Pterolepis arenacea is preliminarily assessed as Data Deficient (DD) under the IUCN criteria.

Keywords: Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins, Jalapão, Matopiba, Pterolepis polygonoides, sandstone outcrops

 Field images of  Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim., sp. nov.
A, Individuals growing in sandstone outcrop cavities; B, detail of a stem, showing the grey-green abaxial surface leaf blades; C, individuals with both flowers and fruits; D, flowering individual; E and F, details of the flowers and floral bud.

Photographs by M. Figueira (A, C and D; all from M. Figueira et al. 1773) and M. F. Simon (B, E and F; all from R.R. Souza et al. 269).

 Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim., sp. nov.
 A, Flowering branch; B, a small branched specimen; C, branch node; D, abaxial surface of the leaf blade; D′, detail of the abaxial surface of the leaf blade base; E, adaxial surface of the leaf blade; E′, detail of the adaxial surface of the leaf blade base; F, front view of the flower, exposing the inner surfaces of the petals and the androecium; G, lateral view of the flower, showing the outer surfaces of the hypanthium and perianth; H, inner surface of the petal, highlighting the venation; I–I′′, antesepalous stamens (I, lateral view of the stamen; I′, front view of the stamen; I′′, detail of the dorsal and ventral appendages); J, gynoecium; K, capsule covered by the hypanthium and persistent sepals; L, exposed capsule; M, open capsule exposing persistent placenta.

Drawn by Carla de Lima from R.R. Souza et al. 269 (A and C–M) and M. Figueira et al. 1773 (B).

 Distribution and habitat of  Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim., sp. nov. 
A, Distribution map for Pterolepis arenacea (yellow triangles) (Brazilian states: BA, Bahia; MA, Maranhão; TO, Tocantins). B, Aerial view of the vegetation in the Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins (EESGT), showing a predominance of savannas and grasslands interspersed with rocky outcrops. C and D, Habitat where Pterolepis arenacea was found in the municipality of Formosa do Rio Preto, Bahia.

Photographs: Sérgio E. Noronha (B) and M. Figueira (C and D).

D. N. Silva, M. Figueira, B. Schindler, M. F. Simon and P. J. F. Guimarães. 2026. PTEROLEPIS ARENACEA (MELASTOMATACEAE: Melastomateae), A New Species from the Brazilian Cerrado.  Edinburgh Journal of Botany. (83); 1-14 pp. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2140 [2026-07-13]

 Researchgate.net/publication/409266877_PTEROLEPIS_ARENACEA_A_NEW_SPECIES_FROM_THE_BRAZILIAN_CERRADO

[Botany • 2024] Maxillaria andina (Orchidaceae: Maxillariinae) • A New Species from the northern Andes

Maxillaria andina Pisso-Florez, J.S.Moreno, P.A.Harding & Baquero,  

in Pisso-Florez, Moreno, Harding et Baquero, 2024.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.15517/lank.v24i1.56756

Abstract

Maxillaria andina, a new orchid species from high-Andean ecosystems of southwestern Colombia and northern Ecuador, is described. The new species is distinguished by having long and narrowly linear white sepals and petals with revolute margins, lip with mucronate epichile, and callus without hairs or trichomes. Distinguishing characters are provided to differentiate it from morphologically similar species, along with ecological and taxonomical notes. Additionally, Maxillaria sibundoyensis is synonymized with Maxillaria floribunda.

Keywords: Colombia, Ecuador, high-Andean ecosystems, Neotropical flora, taxonomy

Maxillaria andina Pisso-Florez, J.S.Moreno, P.A.Harding & Baquero.
A. Habit. B. Flower. C. Dissected perianth, not flattened. D. Ovary, column and lip, lateral view. E. Adaxial view of lip. F. Column, oblique, ventral, and lateral views. LCDP by G.A. Pisso-Florez and J.S. Moreno based on the holotype.

Maxillaria andina Pisso-Florez, J.S.Moreno, P.A.Harding & Baquero, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Maxillaria andina is most similar to M. floribunda and Maxillaria caveroi D.E.Benn. & Christen-son. It is distinguished from M. floribunda by having the entirely white sepals and petals (vs. yellow, white and brownish petals), the longer and narrower sepals (6.08–6.55 × 0.26–0.57 vs. 5.3 × 1.0 cm), the smaller lip (0.78 × 1.14 vs. 1.3 × 1.8 cm), with the mid-lobe apex verrucose (vs. scabrous), and the base of the lip scabrous (vs. slightly verrucose or spiculate). The new species differs from M. caveroi by having narrower, linear sepals and petals (vs. lanceolate) and the absence of sparse trichomes on the lip.

Etymology: Named in reference to the Andean region of Colombia and Ecuador in South America, where the new species was found. The Andean region is a key area for conserving the diversity of Maxillariinae species.

 Gustavo Adolfo Pisso-Florez, Juan Sebastián Moreno, Patricia A. Harding and Luis E. Baquero. 2024. A New Species of Maxillaria (Maxillariinae) from the northern Andes and a new synonym of Maxillaria floribunda. Lankesteriana. 24(1); 79-91. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/lank.v24i1.56756 [2024-04-22]

#NuevaEspecie #PlantasColombia  

Etymology: its name refers to the Andean region between Colombia and Ecuador, where this species is distributed.

[Botany • 2026] Bryobium scutatum (Orchidaceae) • A New Species of Bryobium from Sumatra, Indonesia [Flora of Gayo Plateau IV]

 

Bryobium scutatum  Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit.,

in Schuiteman, Mustaqim et Champion, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

  facebook.com: Jeffrey Champion 

Abstract

A new species of Bryobium Lindl. is described based on specimens collected in northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra. It is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) due to its narrow range and imminent threats to its habitat. A detailed description, photographs, an illustration, and a key to Sumatran Bryobium species are provided. 

Keywords: epiphyte, key, Red List, taxonomy, Indonesia

 Morphology of Bryobium scutatum.
 A. Sterile stem. B. Plant in flower. C. Inflorescence. D. Flowers. E. Flower, front view. F. Flower, lateral view. G. Dorsal sepals, abaxial and adaxial views. H. Lateral sepals, abaxial and adaxial views. I. Petals, adaxial and abaxial views. J. Column and lip, lateral view. K. Lip, adaxial view. L. Lip, adaxial view. M. Lip, lateral view. N. Lip, front view. O. Column and column-foot, ventral view. P. Anther cap, ventral views without and with the pollinarium. Q. Pollinia.

Photographs after Mustaqim et al. 4045 by Wendy A. Mustaqim (A-L and O-P) and after cult. J. Champion s.n. by Jeffrey Champion (M-N).

Bryobium scutatum Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit., sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: The new species is superficially similarto B. pullum from Sulawesi but differs in havinglarger floral parts (e.g., sepals 9.5–10.0 vs. 6 mm),a lip mid-lobe (epichile) with a central callus andtwo calli at the base (vs. mid-lobe without calli), lipnot constricted (vs. lip abruptly constricted near themiddle), basal calli of the lip shield-like ( vs. basalcalli ridge-like). The base of the lip is dark reddish ...

Etymology: From the Latin scutatus, ‘carrying ashield’, referring to the shield-like calli on the lip.

André Schuiteman, Wendy A. Mustaqim and Jeffrey Champion. 2026. Flora of Gayo Plateau IV: A New Species of Bryobium (Orchidaceae) from Gayo Plateau, Sumatra. LANKESTERIANA. 26(2); 93–100. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

  facebook.com/JeffreyChampion5/posts/27836172582738337

 Researchgate.net/publication/408315562_A_new_species_of_Bryobium_from_Gayo_Plateau_Sumatra

  

[Paleontology • 2026] Spea labreae • A New extinct Pleistocene Species of Spadefoot Toad (Anura: Scaphiopodidae) and comments on the Paleoecology and Paleobiogeography of Anurans from Rancho La Brea, California

Reconstruction of Spea labreae, (dark spadefoots, center) in La Brea Tar Pits compared with Spea hammondii (light spadefoot, left), the species currently present in the area, and the presence of the Mexican burrowing toad (Rhinophrynidae, bottom). 

 Cruz & Lindsey, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2026.2689465 

Artwork by Arturo Dávalos

ABSTRACT

Fossil amphibians hold great promise for paleoecological, paleoclimatological, and biogeographic studies because of their extreme sensitivity to environmental conditions. However, the study of fossil amphibians to date has been limited, because the fragility of frog, toad, and salamander skeletons means that diagnostic elements are rarely preserved in the fossil record. One unique locality that preserves a robust record of Quaternary amphibians is Rancho La Brea in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. Here, we describe the amphibian fauna from the Hancock Collection of Rancho La Brea, which contains fossils from ∼45,000 years before present through the Holocene. We document previously unrecognized taxa from this locality, including the Mexican burrowing toad Rhinophrynus sp. and a new species of spadefoot toad, Spea labreae, sp. nov. Using osteological comparison material, we calculate the size of this new species of Spea, which is larger than the extant species in this genus. We analyze the current distribution and fossil record of the genus Spea and the family Rhinophrynidae, documenting changes in geographic ranges of these taxa during the Quaternary. These changes likely resulted from the interplay of deglacial climate changes and topographic complexity in the American Southwest, and may help to predict amphibian responses to climate changes impacting the region today.

Class AMPHIBIA, Linnaeus, 1767

Order ANURA Rafinesque, 1815

Family SCAPHIOPODIDAE Cope, 1865

Genus SPEA Cope, 1866

SPEA LABREAE, sp. nov.

Etymology—The specific epithet refers to La Brea, Spanish for ‘the tar’ which gave rise to the name of Rancho La Brea, the locality where this species is found.

 

Locality, Horizon, and Age—Pit A, Rancho La Brea, Los Angeles, California, Late Pleistocene–Holocene.

 

Reconstruction of Spea labreae, (dark spadefoots, center and right) in La Brea Tar Pits compared with Spea hammondii (light spadefoot, left), the species currently present in the area, and the presence of the Mexican burrowing toad (Rhinophrynidae, bottom).

 Artwork by Arturo Dávalos.

 

J. Alberto Cruz and Emily L. Lindsey. 2026. A New extinct Pleistocene Species of Spadefoot Toad and comments on the Paleoecology and Paleobiogeography of Anurans from Rancho La Brea, California. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. e2689465. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2026.2689465 [04 Aug 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Begonia mishmiorum (Begoniaceae, sect. Platycentrum) • A remarkable New Species from the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh, India

 

Begonia mishmiorum S.Chowdhury, B.Hajong & P.Bharali, 

in Chowdhury, Hajong et Bharali, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.758.3.7

 

Abstract

A remarkable new species, Begonia mishmiorum sp. nov. (sect. Platycentrum), from Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, is described and illustrated. The species is allied to Begonia persistens Y.H.Tan, M.B.Maw & H.B.Ding and Begonia dicressine Wahlsteen but is readily distinguished by a unique combination of characters, notably its conspicuous, persistent bracteoles that are pinkish-white, deltoid to broadly ovate, sparsely hairy, and completely enclosing the ovary, a feature rarely observed within the section. It further differs in having glabrous, terete petioles, asymmetric cordate leaves with a variegated adaxial surface. A detailed taxonomic description, colour photographs, and a comparison table with allied species are provided. The species is currently known only from a single locality Mithumna in Anjaw district, where its habitat is fragmented and declining due to road construction and landslides. Owing to insufficient data on its population size and distribution, it is provisionally assessed as Data Deficient (DD) following IUCN criteria. Further field studies are needed to clarify its conservation status.

Eudicots, Begoniaceae, Cucurbitales, Eastern Himalaya, Anjaw, endemic, new taxon

 Habitat of Begonia mishmiorum sp. nov. 

Begonia mishmiorum S.Chowdhury, B.Hajong & P.Bharali sp. nov. 

§ Platycentrum  

Etymology: The specific epithet “mishmiorum” honours the Mishmi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh recognizing their indigenous heritage and long-standing association with the forests where the species occurs.

 

Sambit CHOWDHURY, Bipankar HAJONG and Pankaj BHARALI. 2026. Begonia mishmiorum (Sect. Platycentrum), A remarkable New Species from the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh, India.  Phytotaxa. 758(3); 285-292. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.758.3.7 [2026-05-26]

[Entomology • 2026] Hexacentrus bidentatus & H. nanlingensis • Two New Species of the Genus Hexacentrus Serville, 1831 (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Hexacentrinae) from China

Hexacentrus nanlingensis  

Ren, Xiong, Zhang & Shi, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.8

 Abstract

This paper reports two new species of the genus Hexacentrus Serville, 1831 from Guangxi and Guangdong, China, i.e. Hexacentrus bidentatus sp. nov. and Hexacentrus nanlingensis sp. nov. In addition, morphological characters and ecological photographs are provided. The male calling songs are also presented for both new species and Hexacentrus expansus Wang & Shi, 2005 for the first time.

Orthoptera, Hexacentrus, new species, bioacoustics, Guangxi, Guangdong, China

Lateral habitus of Hexacentrus spp.:
A, C, E. H. bidentatus sp. nov.: A. female; C, E. male;
B, H. H. nanlingensis sp. nov.: B. female; H. male;
D. H. expansus Wang & Shi, 2005 (male); F. H. formosanus Chen & He, 2021(male). 

A–B. Hexacentrus expansus Wang & Shi, 2005;
C–D. Hexacentrus nanlingensis sp. nov.

(Photographed by Tao Zhang).

Hexacentrus bidentatus sp. nov. 

Hexacentrus nanlingensis sp. nov. 

 

BINGYU REN, ZIJIAN XIONG, TAO ZHANG and FUMING SHI. 2266. Two New Species of the genus Hexacentrus Serville, 1831 (Tettigoniidae: Hexacentrinae) from China.  Zootaxa. 5862(2); 347-358. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.8 [2026-08-05]