[Ichthyology • 2026] Hippocampus amandavincentae • A New Species of Spiny Seahorse (Syngnathiformes: Syngnathidae) from Indian Ocean, with Redescription of H. histrix and H. jayakari

 

Hippocampus amandavincentae  

Shalu, Short, Raghavan, Ramvilas & Ranjeet, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.4  

 facebook.com/RajeevRAGHAVAN98

 

Abstract

The thorny seahorse, Hippocampus histrix Kaup, 1856, has long been treated as a single, widely distributed species ranging from the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean to the western Pacific. Morphological and molecular evidence now demonstrate that this broad concept encompasses at least three diagnosable species. Examination of Indian Ocean specimens combined with mitochondrial COI sequence analysis reveals a new lineage herein described as Hippocampus amandavincentae sp. nov., based on material from southeastern India and corroborated by published sequences from Madagascar, Mozambique, the Seychelles, and the northern Red Sea. The new species is diagnosed by a shorter snout, five coronet spines, and spines present on all principal trunk and tail ridges. A published COI sequence from the northern Red Sea places H. amandavincentae in apparent sympatry with Hippocampus jayakari Boulenger, 1900, in that region, indicating that the distributional boundary between these two species requires targeted field investigation. Hippocampus histrix sensu stricto is redescribed and its distribution restricted to the Pacific Ocean, including Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, based on direct examination of type material. Hippocampus jayakari, described from the Gulf of Oman, is confirmed as a distinct species of the northwestern Indian Ocean, readily distinguished by four cleithral spines with the ventral-most bifurcate, a shorter and deeper snout, and spines confined to alternating tail rings. Together, these three species represent geographically coherent lineages whose delineation resolves over a century of misidentification in museum collections and online databases, stabilises the application of long-used names, and provides a practical framework for regional conservation assessment and future systematic research on spiny seahorses across the Indo-Pacific.

Pisces, barcoding, India, species complex, taxonomy, thorny seahorse

Hippocampus amandavincentae sp. nov.

Hippocampus amandavincentae sp. nov.

Kannan SHALU, Graham SHORT, Rajeev RAGHAVAN, Ghosh RAMVILAS and Kutty RANJEET. 2026. A New Species of Spiny Seahorse, Hippocampus amandavincentae, with Redescription of H. histrix and H. jayakari (Teleostei: Syngnathidae).  Zootaxa. 5862(2); 271-292. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.4 [2026-08-05] 

  facebook.com/RajeevRAGHAVAN98/posts/10162487911550938

[Herpetology • 2026] Cyrtopodion arachnoideum, C. cryptum, C. maritimum, C. oculiplenum, ... • Taxonomic Diversity of Iranian Thin-Toed Geckos of the Cyrtopodion agamuroides-gastropholis Species Complex (Squamata: Gekkonidae) with Description of Ten New Species

 

Cyrtopodion oculiplenum 

Nazarov, Nabizadeh, Rajabizadeh, Moaddab, Nikolaev, Solovyeva, Melnikov, Ananjeva, Poyarkov & Ratsegar-Pouyani, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.30906/1026-2296-2026-33-2-85-168 

  Researchgate.net/publication/408559918

Photo by Roman Nazarov

Abstract 

The thin-toed geckos of the Cyrtopodion agamuroides-gastropholis species complex represent a taxonomically challenging group of geckos whose systematic and phylogenetic relationships remain poorly resolved. A dataset comprising 251 specimens belonging to the agamuroides-gastropholis complex was analyzed, based on material collected over a period of 20 years. A morphological comparison of external features revealed a high degree of species diversity within this group. We present the first preliminary data from analysis of the mitochondrial DNA barcoding (COI). The species delimitation analysis is consistent with the morphologically based species diversification, allowing an estimation of the species diversity within this group. The results of this study have led to the description of ten new species of the agamuroides-gastropholis complex, conditionally placed in the genus Cyrtopodion. The present study also discusses the biogeography, evolution, and speciation of this group. Further revision of the genus taxonomy of these geckos is needed, as well as a more detailed genetic and genomic study.

Keywords: Gekkonidae; Cyrtopodion; South Iran; distribution; taxonomy; cryptic species; barcoding; COI

Cyrtopodion oculiplenum sp. nov., Chabahar-Beris Road, Sistan-Baluchestan Province, Iran. November 6, 2019.

Photo by Roman Nazarov

C. arachnoideum, C. cryptum, C. khaborense, 

C. kuhestanense, C. layazanganense, 

C. maritimum, C. minimum, C. nasrullahi, 

C. oculiplenum, C. orlovi

 

Roman A. Nazarov, Hossein Nabizadeh, Mahdi Rajabizadeh, Marteza Moaddab, Oleg D. Nikolaev, Evgeniya N. Solovyeva, Daniel A. Melnikov, Natalia B. Ananjeva, Nikolay A. Poyarkov, Eskandar Ratsegar-Pouyani. 2026. Taxonomic Diversity of Iranian Thin-Toed Geckos of the Cyrtopodion agamuroides-gastropholis Species Complex (Reptilia: Squamata: Gekkonidae) with Description of Ten New Species. Russian Journal of Herpetology. 33(2); 85-168. DOI: doi.org/10.30906/1026-2296-2026-33-2-85-168 [July 8, 2026] 

 Researchgate.net/publication/408559918_Taxonomic_Diversity_of_Cyrtopodion_agamuroides-gastropholis_Species_Complex

 

[Arachnida • 2026] Latrodectus lucacha • A New Andean Species of Widow Spider (Araneae: Theridiidae: Latrodectus)

Latrodectus lucacha  

 Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, 2026

DOI:  doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1281.185973 

 

Abstract

We describe a new species of widow spider (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus) from the Andean region. DNA barcode sequences are provided. The species is documented from museum specimens across Peru and identified from photographs on iNaturalist, extending its inferred distribution into Ecuador, Bolivia, and Chile. We integrate specimen and citizen-science occurrences to generate a species distribution model using WorldClim bioclimatic variables, predicting highest suitability along temperate to high-elevation Andean regions. We discuss the utility and limitations of citizen-science imagery for delimiting and mapping species and summarize available information on clinical aspects of envenomation in Peru associated with the local “lucacha” widow spider.

Key words: Andes, citizen-science, DNA barcode, iNaturalist, Latrodectus lucacha, new species, Peru, species distribution model, taxonomy

Observations of Latrodectus lucacha Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, sp. nov., from iNaturalist.
A. Female, male and egg case, from Arica, Arica y Parinacota, Chile; iNaturalist.org (by ferru, CC-BY-NC); B. Female with two egg cases, note parasitoid wasps on egg case, from Nabón, Azuay, Ecuador; iNaturalist.org (by kabirbosques, CC-BY);
C. Female feeding on a beetle, from Lima, Peru; iNaturalist.org (by ruthgo, CC0); D. Female feeding on a damselfly, from Lima, Peru; iNaturalist.org (by Mathieu_fr, CC-BY-NC).

Latrodectus lucacha Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, sp. nov.
A–C. From Pantanos de Villa Om, Lima, Peru (MUSM-ENT 051958), microphotographs of adult male; D. From Pachacayo, Junin, Peru (MUSM-ENT 0519569), schematic illustration of female reproductive structures; A, D. Dorsal; B. Lateral; C. Ventral.

Abbreviations: CD copulatory duct, FD Fertilization duct, SP Spermathecae. 

Scale bars: 1.0 mm (A–C), 0.5 mm (D).

Latrodectus lucacha Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Female with three loop copulatory ducts (Figs 2D, 3D–F), distinguishing it from L. geometricus C. L. Koch, 1841 and L. quartus Abalos, 1980 (Abalos 1980: figs 39, 66), which have more loops (ca 4), and from L. antheratus (Badcock, 1932) and L. variegatus Nicolet, 1849 (Abalos 1980: figs 49, 58), which have fewer (2). With dorsal longitudinal opisthosomal stripe variable in both width and length (Figs 4, 5), resembling several South American species, but not exhibiting oblique vertical stripes on the posterior quarter ...

Etymology. Lucacha is a common name for widow spiders in Peru (Pickard-Cambridge 1902; Maguiña Vargas et al. 2017).

Jeremy Miller, Chris Alice Kratzer and Charles Griswold. 2026. Description of A New Andean Species of Widow Spider (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus). ZooKeys. 1281: 49-67. DOI:  doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1281.185973 

[Entomology • 2026] Cricotopus motuoensis & C. neomatudigitatus • DNA Barcodes reveal Cryptic Species of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) montanus Species Group (Diptera: Chironomidae) from Oriental China

 

Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) motuoensis Chen & Lin, sp. nov.,
C. (P.) neomatudigitatus Chen & Lin, sp. nov. 

in Chen, Z.-C. Zhang, Y. Zhang, Nyima et Lin, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5828.3.4 

Abstract

Two cryptic species of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) montanus species group (Diptera: Chironomidae) from Oriental China have been discovered by DNA barcodes. Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) motuoensis Chen & Lin, sp. nov., and Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) neomatudigitatus Chen & Lin, sp. nov. are described and illustrated. The validity of some previously described species is discussed, and the diagnosis of the subgenus is amended. A key to known adult males of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) is presented.

Diptera, Orthocladiinae, taxonomy, pupa, female, key

 

Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) motuoensis Chen & Lin, sp. nov., 

Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) neomatudigitatus Chen & Lin, sp. nov. 

YI-ZHU CHEN, ZHI-CHAO ZHANG, YAN ZHANG, TENZIN NYIMA and XIAO-LONG LIN. 2026. DNA Barcodes reveal Cryptic Species of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) montanus Species Group (Diptera: Chironomidae) from Oriental China.  Zootaxa. 5828(3); 481-501. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5828.3.4 [2026-06-10]

 

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

 Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen, 

in Japaridze, Junnilainen et Sihvonen, 2026.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.2.8

 

Abstract

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

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

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

Scale bar: 10 mm

Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. 

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

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

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

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

 

  Dolichopoda balrogi  Kalaentzis & Alexiou, 

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

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

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jor.35.187943

Photos: K. Kalaentzis.

Abstract

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

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

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

Photo credit: K. Kalaentzis.

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

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

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

[Entomology • 2026] Pyralis papaleonei • A New Species (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) from Crete (Greece)

[2, 3, 6, 9] Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov.

Huemer, Kaila & Segerer, 2026;

[4] P. kacheticalis;    [5] P. regalis  

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/nl.49.185483

Abstract 

Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. is described based on diagnostic phenotypic and genital morphological characters as well as unique DNA barcodes (COI gene – cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) and compared with closely related taxa occurring in the Eastern Mediterranean, namely P. kacheticalis and P. regalis. The new species is endemic to the island of Crete and currently only known from the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) in the western part of the island. Pyralis kacheticalis is recorded from Iraq and Armenia for the first time.

Pyralis spp., habitus.
2. Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov., holotype, ♂; 3. P. papaleonei sp. nov., paratype, ♂;
4. P. kacheticalis, ♂, Georgia; 5. P. regalis ♂, Italy (TLMF). 

Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. is distinguished from all congeners by its narrow white forewing markings, featuring an almost uniformly slender white median band extending across the entire wing (Figs 2, 3). In all other species of the group (Figs 4, 5), except for specimens of P. kacheticalis from Cyprus, the white pattern elements are distinctly broader, and in some cases abruptly narrowed medially or terminating in the middle of the wing. Also characteristic are the nearly uniform pale greyish-purple hindwings, which are divided into three sections by two white lines; the basal section is only slightly darker than the outer sections. In contrast, in ...

Etymology. The new species is dedicated to the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV. The Pontiff is a strong advocate of climate and environmental protection, and we hope that his voice may serve as an example for humanity. Furthermore, due to its distinctive coloration and overall appearance, the new species belongs to a group of Pyralidae whose species names refer to high secular or ecclesiastical offices, including Pyralis regalis, Pyralis imperialis (= P. kacheticalis), Pyralis princeps, and Pyralis cardinalis.

 Peter Huemer, Lauri Kaila and Andreas H. Segerer. 2026. Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. from Crete (Greece) (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae). Nota Lepidopterologica. 49: 63-74. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/nl.49.185483 [28 Apr 2026]

[Diplopoda • 2026] Riukiaria langyaensis • A New Species of the Genus Riukiaria (Polydesmida: Xystodesmidae) from eastern China, with the characterization of its complete mitochondrial genome

Riukiaria langyaensis  Han & Wang, 

in Han, Liu, Wang et Dong, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1272.182977

Abstract

This study describes a new millipede species of the genus Riukiaria from China: Riukiaria langyaensis sp. nov., and provides an identification key to all 19 Riukiaria species currently known from China. A systematic review was conducted on the 34 described Riukiaria species, and these species were classified into five categories based on the morphology of the male gonopod. The complete mitochondrial genome of this new species was sequenced and annotated for the first time, representing the first mitogenomic data reported for the genus Riukiaria. The mitogenome of R. langyaensis sp. nov. is 14,954 bp in length, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region, with an overall A+T content of 65.8%. All 37 mitochondrial genes are encoded on the Heavy strand. The results help clarify the confused species relationships within Riukiaria and provide fundamental data for phylogenetic studies of Xystodesmidae.

Key words: Complete mitochondrial genome, identification key, millipede, mitogenome, Riukiaria, species description, taxonomy

Riukiaria langyaensis sp. nov. 
A. Live coloration; B. Live specimen under UV light.

Riukiaria langyaensis sp. nov. 
A. Posterior part of body, dorsal view; B. Midbody rings, dorsal view; C. Anterior part of body, dorsal view; D. Telson, ventral view; E. Both gonopods, ventral view; F. Rings 16–19 and telson, dorsal view. Scale bars: 1.0 mm.

Riukiaria langyaensis Han & Wang, sp. nov.

  

Diagnosis. This species closely resembles Riukiaria mundyi Korsós, Nakamura & Tanabe, 2011 in tergal features and body coloration. However, Riukiaria langyaensis sp. nov. differs by having a lighter body color than R. mundyi, with antennae and walking legs exhibiting a wheat-colored hue and the paratergal margins appearing translucent. In terms of gonopod structure, the prefemorite of Riukiaria langyaensis sp. nov. is similar to that of Riukiaria contigua (Wang, 1957), but its acropodite is more inflated and nearly spherical, with an indistinctly forked tip, and the prefemoral processes are completely missing.

 Zewu Han, Xin Liu, Jiajia Wang and Yan Dong. 2026. Description of A New Species of the Genus Riukiaria (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Xystodesmidae) from eastern China, with the characterization of its complete mitochondrial genome. ZooKeys. 1272: 315-335.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1272.182977 [10 Mar 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Methocha haaksek, M. hongkongensis, ... • The Methocha (Hymenoptera: Thynnidae: Methochinae) of Hong Kong (China), A Preliminary Faunal List with Descriptions of Five New Species and Sexual Associations rendered through Molecular Analysis

 

A. Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
B & C. M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
 D. M. leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
 E. M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
 F. M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

in Barthélémy, Terayama, Poon et Sin. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1043.3213 

Abstract

Five new species of Methocha Latreille, 1804 are described from Hong Kong: two species based on females only, Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. and Methocha leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.; two on males only, M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. and M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.; and one with females and males associated through molecular analysis, M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. A key to species and a phylogenetic tree of Methocha occurring in the Hong Kong SAR are provided.

Keywords: Thynnoidea, morphometrics, Cicindelinae, DNA barcoding, phylogenetic

Holotypes and paratypes, lateral habitus.
A. Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♀, M459.D.Hy.1, CASC. B. M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♀, M364.C.Hy.2, CASC. C. M. hongkongensis, paratype, ♂, M561CHY3, CBC. D. ♀, M. leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♂, M099.C.Hy.2, CASC.
E. M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♂, M060.C.Hy.4, CASC. F. M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., paratype, ♂, M321.E.Hy.4B, CBC.

Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

M. leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.; 

M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.

 Christophe Barthélémy, Mamoru Terayama, Emily Shui Kei Poon and Simon Yung Wa Sin. 2026. The Methocha (Hymenoptera: Thynnidae: Methochinae) of Hong Kong (China), A Preliminary Faunal List with Descriptions of Five New Species and Sexual Associations rendered through Molecular Analysis. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1043(1); 118–151. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1043.3213 

[Ichthyology • 2026] Mesoaphyosemion izyarae • A New killifish Species (Cyprinodontiformes: Nothobranchiidae) from southern Equatorial Guinea

Mesoaphyosemion izyarae Ott, Sonnenberg & Van der Zee,

in Sonnenberg, Ott, Rodriguez, Olias, Martinez et Van der Zee, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5759.4.5

Abstract

Mesoaphyosemion izyarae sp. nov., is described from a small left-bank tributary of the Mitemele River in southern Equatorial Guinea. The new species is distinguished from all other described Mesoaphyosemion species by a unique combination of male colouration characters: dorsal fin yellow with red streaks between fin rays; anal and pelvic fins yellow with black or dark red margin, basally light blue, caudal fin in centre black with red streaks between fin rays, broad yellow area on dorsal and ventral margin, body metallic light blue with more or regular rows of red dots on side, posteriorly denser and forming a reticulated pattern. The species status is supported by mtDNA analyses, including nine of the eleven described valid Mesoaphyosemion species.

Pisces, phylogeny, colour pattern, taxonomy, mtDNA, Rio Mitemele, Pleistocene rainforest refuge  

Mesoaphyosemion izyarae.
Male (1) and female (2) from the type locality, Rio Mveň basin, near the village of Efulan, Equatorial Guinea (not preserved). 

Mesoaphyosemion izyarae sp. nov., Ott, Sonnenberg & Van der Zee

Diagnosis. Mesoaphyosemion izyarae shares with other species of the genus a combination of the following characteristics in the male: a mostly metallic pale blue, blue or blue-green colouration on the sides; an often variable pattern of red dots on sides, in most species irregularly distributed, in others forming more or less regular stripes or blotches; a latero-ventral red line on the caudal peduncle; unpaired fins without, or with only short, fin extensions, caudal fin nearly straight, slightly rounded or weakly trilobate; no conspicuous markings on ventral side of the head; adults have a yellow snout. Unfortunately, none of these characteristics is diagnostic on its own as they are also known from other nothobranchiid genera or species groups but, in combination, they are significant.

Mesoaphyosemion izyarae is distinguished from all other known Mesoaphyosemion species by a unique combination of colour pattern features in the male: dorsal fin yellow with red streaks between fin rays; anal and pelvic fins yellow with black or dark red margin, basally light blue, caudal fin black in...

RAINER SONNENBERG, HEINZ OTT, ADOLFO GONZALEZ RODRIGUEZ, CARLOS VIZCAINO OLIAS, FRANCISCO PORTAL MARTINEZ and JOUKE R. VAN DER ZEE. 2026.  Description of Mesoaphyosemion izyarae (Cyprinodontiformes: Nothobranchiidae), A New killifish Species from southern Equatorial Guinea. Zootaxa. 5759(4); 453-463. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5759.4.5 [2026-02-18]

[Botany • 2026] Heptapleurum karsticola & Trevesia laotica (Araliaceae) • Two New Species from the limestone karst of Central Laos

 Heptapleurum karsticola Kongx., Tak.Yamam. & Tagane,

in Kongxaisavath, Tagane, Yamamoto, Phonepaseuth, Dang et Souladeth, 2026. 

 ຕ້າງຜາຫອມ  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.737.1.1 

 facebook.com/PhetlasySOULADETH

 

Abstract

Two new species of Araliaceae, Heptapleurum karsticola and Trevesia laotica, are described from limestone karst in central Laos. Heptapleurum karsticola was found in Khammouane Province, and the second species, T. laotica, was found in Bolikhamxai and Khammouane Provinces. Information regarding the distribution, habitat, phenology, vernacular names, preliminary conservation assessment, DNA barcodes, and taxonomic notes compared to other closely related species is provided for each species.

Apiales, endemic species, Flora, Indochina, phylogeny, taxonomy, Eudicots

 Heptapleurum karsticola Kongx., Tak.Yamam. & Tagane 

 ຕ້າງຜາຫອມ

 Trevesia laotica Kongx., Soulad. & Tagane  

 ຜັກໜາມຕົ້ນ

Deuanta KONGXAISAVATH, Shuichiro TAGANE, Takenori YAMAMOTO, Phongphayboun PHONEPASEUTH, Van-Son DANG and Phetlasy SOULADETH. 2026. Two New Species of Araliaceae from the limestone karst of Central Laos.  Phytotaxa. 737(1); 1-16. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.737.1.1 [2026-01-07]

 facebook.com/PhetlasySOULADETH/posts/25388574064103774

#ພູຫິນປູນ #ພູຜາມ່ານ #ແຂວງຄຳມ່ວນ 

ຂໍແນະນຳ 🌳ຕົ້ນໄມ້ 2 ຊະນິດໃໝ່ຂອງໂລກ ຕະກຸນຕ້າງ (Araliaceae) ໄດ້ຮັບການຕີພິມໃນວາລະສານ PHYTOTAXA 737(1): 001–016

1. Heptapleurum karsticola Kongx., Tak.Yamam. & Tagane (ໃຫ້ຊື່ລາວວ່າ ຕ້າງຜາຫອມ)

2. Trevesia laotica Kongx., Soulad. & Tagane (ໃຫ້ຊື່ລາວວ່າ ຜັກໜາມຕົ້ນ)

[Entomology • 2024] Taikona gaoligongshana & T. extraordinaria • Two New Species of the Genus Taikona Arita & Gorbunov, 2001 (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) from Yunnan, China

 

[1-2] Taikona gaoligongshana Yu, Arita & Kallies,
[5-8] Taikona extraordinaria Yu, Kallies & Arita

in Yu, Kallies, Arita, He, Li, Yata & LiI, 2024 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5443.1.8  

  Researchgate.net/publication/379951548

 

Abstract 

Two new species, Taikona gaoligongshana Yu, Arita & Kallies, sp. nov. and Taikona extraordinaria Yu, Kallies & Arita sp. nov. are described from Yunnan Province, China. Illustrations of the holotypes and the male genitalia are provided, along with a key to all currently known species of the genus. DNA barcoding sequences are also provided.

 Lepidoptera, Sesiidae, Paranthrenini, Oriental region, barcoding, clearwing moths, taxonomy

 Taikona species, adults.
1-4. Taikona gaoligongshana sp. nov. 1-2. Holotype, ♂, Gongshan County, Yunnan Prov., No. KIZ 0135567. 3-4. Paratype, ♂, Gongshan County, Yunnan Prov., No. KIZ 0135568.
5-8. Taikona extraordinaria sp. nov. 5-6. Holotype, Dulongjiang Village, Gongshan County, Yunnan Prov., No. KIZ 0135569. 7-8. Paratype, ♂, Bingzhongluo Town, Gongshan County, Yunnan Prov., No. KIZ 0135570.

 

Taikona gaoligongshana Yu, Arita & Kallies, sp. nov. 

Taikona extraordinaria Yu, Kallies & Arita sp. nov. 

TIANTIAN YU, AXEL KALLIES, YUTAKA ARITA, JINFU HE, HAIJUN LI, NAOKI YATA, XUEYAN LI. 2024. Two New Species of the Genus Taikona Arita & Gorbunov, 2001 (Lepidoptera, Sesiidae) from Yunnan, China.  Zootaxa. 5443(1); 135-140. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5443.1.8 [2024-04-19] 

 Researchgate.net/publication/379951548_Two_new_species_of_the_genus_Taikona_from_Yunnan_China

[Entomology • 2025] Paragomphus alami • A New Dragonfly Species (Odonata: Gomphidae) described from the White Nile River, Sudan

 

Paragomphus alami

Salah, Baleela, Ahmed, Isam, Abdalla, Masri & Elfaki, 2025

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1265.168108

Abstract

Sudan’s unique biogeographic position at the Afrotropical-Palearctic interface, coupled with the ecological gradient of the Nile River, fosters a diverse odonate fauna. Despite this, the genus Paragomphus Cowley, 1934 remains understudied in the region. This study describes Paragomphus alami sp. nov., a new species of Paragomphus from the White Nile floodplain in Sudan, based on integrated morphological and molecular evidence. Field surveys conducted between 2017 and 2022 documented adult populations across the Sudanese floodplains. Specimens were morphologically analysed using microscopy compared to congeners P. lacustris Karsch, 1890 and P. elpidius Ris, 1921. DNA barcoding (COI gene) was performed on two specimens, with maximum-likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction using 28 sequences of Paragomphus and related species in addition to an outgroup. Mean interspecific genetic distance was computed manually. Morphological comparisons with congeners revealed unique diagnostic traits in P. alami sp. nov., including short, thick cerci ending with a black tooth, and an epiproct that is noticeably shorter than those of P. lacustris and P. elpidius. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that P. alami forms a well-supported monophyletic clade (bootstrap value = 100%), which is corroborated by morphological evidence, and no observed intraspecific variation, which supports the recognition of this species as distinct; this was further supported by the mean interspecific distance of 12.34%. This discovery highlights Sudan’s role as a biogeographic crossroads and the need for further research of Odonata in the region. Habitat sensitivity highlights conservation urgency. The species seasonal emergence, habitat specificity, and sensitivity to deforestation underscore its conservation importance.

Key words: Biodiversity, COI barcoding, conservation, floodplain, Khartoum

Paragomphus alami sp. nov. A. Male holotype (SNHM 1.582) from Jebel Aulia, Khartoum State, Sudan, collected 23 August 2019; B. Mature life male observed and photographed in the wild in Al-Sunt Forest, Khartoum State, Sudan, photographed 4 July 2022.

 Comparison of female coloration and stripe patterns in Paragomphus species. A. P. elpidius; B. Paragomphus alami sp. nov.
Note the small foliations on abdominal segments 8 and 9 in P. elpidius, which are absent in P. alami sp. nov. Note also that the thoracic stripes in P. alami sp. nov. are fine and poorly defined, while in P. elpidius they are sharp, bold, and well defined. Also, the pterostigma is yellowish green in P. alami sp. nov., while it is brown in P. elpidius. Photo credits: (A) John Wilkinson, (B) Mohamed Salah.

 Paragomphus alami sp. nov.

Etymology: The species is named in honour of the late Sudanese scientist Dr Tigani Mohammed Hassan Alam, whose lifelong dedication to documenting and safeguarding Sudan’s wildlife left a profound impact on conservation efforts across the country. Although his contributions were not formally recorded in the academic literature, his influence endures through the generations of Sudanese youth he inspired to appreciate and protect the nation’s natural heritage.

Mohamed Salah, Rania Baleela, Esraa Yousif Ahmed, Babiker Isam, Almontasirbillah Abdalla, Mai Masri and Esra Elfaki. 2025. Paragomphus alami sp. nov. (Odonata, Gomphidae): A New Dragonfly Species described from the White Nile River, Sudan. ZooKeys. 1265: 159-174. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1265.168108 [30 Dec 2025]

[Crustacea • 2025] Caribodillo martinicensis • A New Genus and Species of terrestrial isopod (Oniscidea: Armadillidae) endemic to Martinique

Caribodillo martinicensis  

Kästle, Binder, Jones & Coulis, 2025

  

 sciencepress.mnhn.fr/en/periodiques/zoosystema/47/29

 Researchgate.net/publication/397676418

The terrestrial isopods of the family Armadillidae Brandt, 1833 are poorly known in tropical regions, many new species remain to be described and the classification of many already described species requires revision. The aim of this work is to improve our knowledge of the terrestrial isopods of this family in Martinique, an island in the Lesser Antilles archipelago. The species Caribodillo martinicensis n. gen., n. sp. is described, and a genetic barcode (CO1) is provided. Furthermore, the relationship between Caribodillo n. gen., and Venezillo Verhoeff, 1928 is discussed. The species constitutes the second Armadillidae endemic to the Lesser Antilles, the first one being Cubaris depressa (Dollfuss, 1896) from Saint-Vincent. In addition to increasing our knowledge on the invertebrate biodiversity of the lesser Antilles, the description of this new genus will facilitate the taxonomy of Armadillidae species in the region.

Keywords: Caribbean, Lesser Antilles, Neotropics, Venezillo, woodlice, fluorescence, barcoding, new species, new genus

Caribodillo martinicensis n. gen., n. sp. 

 

 

Benedikt KÄSTLE, Stephanie BINDER, Nathan T. JONES and Mathieu COULIS. 2025. Description of A New Genus and Species of terrestrial isopod (Oniscidea, Armadillidae) endemic to Martinique. Zoosystema. 47(29); 721-729. DOI: 10.5252/zoosystema2025v47a29 [14 November 2025]

  sciencepress.mnhn.fr/en/periodiques/zoosystema/47/29

 Researchgate.net/publication/397676418_a_new_genus_and_species_of_terrestrial_isopod_endemic_to_Martinique