Polycapus

 

Stelletta plana sp. nov.

Polycapus rubrum gen. nov. & sp. nov.

Lehnert, Rooney & Everett, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5857.2.6 

www.fisheries.NOAA.gov 

 

Abstract

An investigation of Alaska’s extraordinarily rich sponge fauna was conducted utilizing samples retained as bycatch during National Marine Fisheries Service stock assessment bottom trawl surveys in the Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands between 1997 and 2021. Subsequent analysis of the samples revealed four new species, which are representatives of four different orders of demosponges: Cladocroce cylindrica sp. nov., Julavis borealis sp. nov., Polycapus rubrum gen. nov. & sp. nov., and Stelletta plana sp. nov.. The new species are described and compared to congeners. Polycapus rubrum was assigned to the Hymedesmiidae but the combination of acanthoxeas and chelae does not occur in any other existing genus within the family which necessitates a new genus. These new collections further highlight the richness of the sponge fauna from the region.

Porifera, new species, North Pacific, Aleutian Islands, Gulf of Alaska, Tetractinellida, Axinellida, Haplosclerida, Stelletta, Polycapus, Julavis, Cladocroce, 28S

Cladocroce cylindrica, is a stalked, branching sponge distinguished by a unique spicule framework that forms a complex, web-like network. 

Julavis borealis, grows like a thin mat over organisms. Its presence in Alaska represents a massive high-latitude geographic leap for a group previously found only in warm, tropical environments. 

Cladocroce cylindrica sp. nov.  

Julavis borealis sp. nov.  

Polycapus rubrum gen. nov. & sp. nov. 

Stelletta plana sp. nov.

Helmut LEHNERT, Sean C. ROONEY and Meredith V. EVERETT. 2026. Four New Demosponges from Alaska and the Designation of A New Genus in Hymedesmiidae (Heteroscleromorpha, Poecilosclerida).  Zootaxa. 5857(2); 317-334. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5857.2.6 [2026-07-29]

Nine Species of Deep-Sea Sponges Discovered in Alaska

www.fisheries.NOAA.gov/feature-story/nine-species-deep-sea-sponges-discovered-alaska

[Botany • 2026] Sedum guniuensis (Crassulaceae) • A New Species from Anhui, China

 

Sedum guniuensis Kun Liu, H. J. Ma & J.W. Shao, 

in Wang, Ma, Fang, Ding, Ni, Zhang, Zou, Shao, Li, Liu et Ai, 2026. 

牯牛景天  |  DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.74120

 

ABSTRACT

A new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae), Sedum guniuensis from the Guniujiang Mountains in southern Anhui, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to S. emarginatum, but can be clearly distinguished by its creeping growth habit and smaller cordate leaves. Additionally, complete chloroplast genomes from six populations of S. guniuensis provide strong molecular evidence for its taxonomic separation from S. emarginatum.

Sedum guniuensis Kun Liu, H. J. Ma & J.W. Shao, sp. nov.
 (A) habitat, (B) habit winter, (C) habit spring, (D) flowers, (E) plants.

 All are photographed by Kun Liu or Haijun Ma.

Sedum guniuensis Kun Liu, H. J. Ma & J.W. Shao, sp. nov. (Figures 4, 5).

Diagnosis: Sedum guniuensis (Figures 4 and 5) is morphologically similar to S. emarginatum, but differs in prostrate stems, cordate smaller leaves (0.5–1.2 × 0.4–1.0 cm vs. 1–2.5 × 0.5–1.2 cm), linear-obovate sepals (2–5 × 0.7–2 mm), and diminutive petals (6–8 × 1.5–2 mm) (Table 2). In sympatry (Figure 4A,B), S. guniuensis has creeping stems and smaller leaves than S. emarginatum.

Etymology: The epithet “guniuensis” is derived from the type locality, Guniujiang mountains, Shitai County, Anhui Province, China. 

The Chinese name given is “Gǔ Niú Jǐng Tiān” (牯牛景天).

Sedum guniuensis (B, D, E, G, I, K) and S. emarginatum (A, C, F, H, J, L),
(A, B) comparison of both species co-occurring in sympatric communities in the wild, (C, D) plants, (E, F) cauline leaves, (G, H) leaf, (I, J) flowers, (K, L) fruits.

All are photographed by Kun Liu or Haijun Ma.

 

Wan-Zeng Wang, Hai-Jun Ma, Hong-Ming Fang, Bai-Lin Ding, Wei-Yong Ni, Si-Yu Zhang, Shi-Hui Zou, Jian-Wen Shao, Nai-Wei Li, Kun Liu and Li-Jiao Ai. 2026. Sedum guniuensis, A New Species of Sedum (Crassulaceae) from Anhui, China. Ecology and Evolution. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.74120 [29 July 2026] 

[Botany • 2026] Hydrangea medogensis (Hydrangeaceae) • A New Species from Xizang (Tibet), China

 

Hydrangea medogensis X.Z.Lan, W.L.Zheng & W.Q.He, 

in He, Zheng, F.-Y. Zhao, Yin, Li, K.-H. Zhao, Zhang, Liao et Lan, 2026.

墨脱绣球  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.279.203326 

Abstract

Based on field surveys, examination of herbarium specimens, and molecular phylogenetic analyses, the present study described a new species, Hydrangea medogensis sp. nov. (Hydrangeaceae), from Medog County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that H. medogensis was placed in Clade 1 as a distinct lineage, sister to the remainder of the clade. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to H. stylosa but can be distinguished by the following key characteristics: fertile flowers with a globose calyx tube constricted at the mouth; calyx teeth triangular, occasionally oblong-ovate, 0.6–1 mm long; adaxial leaf surface covered with two types of soft hairs (long and short); ovary more than 4/5 inferior, nearly completely inferior; and seeds with a very narrow wing around the margin. The taxonomic status of the new species was established based on integrated morphological and molecular evidence.

Key words: Hydrangea, morphological analysis, new species, phylogenetic analysis

Hydrangea medogensis X.Z.Lan, W.L.Zheng & W.Q.He.
A. Habit; B. Fruiting branch; C. Adaxial surface of leaf; D. Abaxial surface of leaf; E. Flower bud; F. Flower; G. Fruit; H. Seed (drawing by Wenqi He).

Hydrangea medogensis X.Z.Lan, W.L.Zheng & W.Q.He. 
A. Habitat; B. Flowering branch; C. Sterile flowers and young fruits; D. Branchlet; E. Fruiting branch.

Hydrangea medogensis X.Z.Lan, W.L.Zheng & W.Q.He, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Hydrangea medogensis is morphologically similar to H. stylosa, but differs in having ovaries more than 4/5 inferior (vs. ca. 2/3 inferior), leaves with adaxial surface covered with long and short hairs (vs. nearly glabrous or glabrous on both surfaces), fertile flowers with calyx tube subglobose, calyx opening constricted, calyx teeth triangular, occasionally oblong-ovate, 0.6–1 mm long (vs. calyx tube campanulate, calyx opening tubular, calyx teeth ovate or suboblong, 1–1.5 mm long), and seeds narrowly winged around margin (vs. minutely winged at one or both ends).

Etymology. The epithet indicates the type locality, i.e., Medog area, Xizang, China.

Vernacular name. mò tuō xiù qiú (Chinese pronunciation); 

墨脱绣球 (Chinese name).

 Wen-Qi He, Wei-Lie Zheng, Fang-Yu Zhao, Kai-Xin Yin, Lian-Qiang Li, Kai-Hui Zhao, Fang-yuan Zhang, Zhi-hua Liao and Xiao-Zhong Lan. 2026. Hydrangea medogensis (Hydrangeaceae), A New Species from Xizang (Tibet), China. PhytoKeys. 279: 51-68. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.279.203326 [10 Sep 2026]

[Paleontology • 2026] Kayrasaurus changliensi • A New therizinosaur from the Early Cretaceous Jehol Biota and ecomorphological patterns among early therizinosaurians

 

Kayrasaurus changliensis  Liao, Freimuth, Zanno & Xu, 2026;

Beipiaosaurus inexpectus; Jianchangosaurus yixianensis; Lingyuanosaurus sihedangensis

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/14772019.2026.2710287 

Artwork by Kōhei Futaka. x.com/_HETAKA

 

Abstract

Therizinosauria is a highly specialized clade of maniraptoran theropods, notable for a suite of unusual traits in late-branching taxa. These paradoxical anatomical features contributed to the complex taxonomic history of the clade, which remained unresolved until the discovery of early branching taxa. Here, we describe a new early branching species, Kayrasaurus changliensis, based on a nearly complete, skeletally immature specimen (IVPP V 18597) recovered from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of western Liaoning, China. This taxon is notably larger than other penecontemporaneous Jehol therizinosaurians (at least 1.6 times larger than the second-largest taxon, Beipiaosaurus inexpectus) and exhibits a unique combination of features (e.g. extremely small and densely packed teeth, cervical centra markedly longer than dorsal centra, and a dorsally extended ‘lip’ on manual ungual IV). We evaluate the phylogenetic position of K. changliensis using an expanded dataset with increased character and taxon sampling. Our results allow us to revise the diagnosis of B. inexpectus and provide new insights into therizinosaurian evolution, provisionally recovering two subclades within Therizinosauridae that are differentiated by their manual ungual morphology. By integrating morphological traits, body mass estimates, and biomechanical data, we infer the possibility of at least two distinct ecological niches among Jehol therizinosaurians. One ecological group, represented by B. inexpectus and possibly K. changliensis, exhibits features indicative of enhanced bite force and a more robust, less cursorial body plan. In contrast, Jianchangosaurus yixianensis and Lingyuanosaurus sihedangensis display traits associated with greater cursoriality and a reliance on forelimb-based foraging. Kayrasaurus changliensis, together with the results of our phylogenetic analysis, provides new insights into the morphological evolution and ecological adaptations of therizinosaurians in the Jehol Biota. However, further analyses and the discovery of more complete, well-preserved specimens are essential to rigorously test and refine these hypotheses. 

Keywords: Early Cretaceous, Liaoning, maniraptoran, morphology, taxonomy

four species of therizinosaurids from the Jehol Biota, China: 
Kayrasaurus changliensis; Beipiaosaurus inexpectus;
Jianchangosaurus yixianensis; Lingyuanosaurus sihedangensis

Artwork by Kōhei Futaka.  x.com/_HETAKA

Systematic palaeontology

Dinosauria Owen, 1842

Theropoda Marsh, 1881

Coelurosauria sensu Gauthier, 1986

Therizinosauria Russell and Dong, 1993

Kayrasaurus changliensis gen. et sp. nov.

Etymology. Kayra, the god of creation in Turkic Shamanism, is the father of Erlik, the god of death, symbolizing its phylogenetic connection to Erlikosaurus; saurus, Greek for lizard. The specific name changliensis is derived from Changli, a historical place name from the Three Kingdoms period, referring to the provenance of the fossil.

Horizon and locality. Dabangou village, Sihetun Area, near Beipiao City, Liaoning Province, P. R. China; Lower Cretaceous (Barremian–Aptian) Yixian Formation (Chang et al., 2017).

Chun-Chi Liao, William J. Freimuth, Lindsay E. Zanno and Xing Xu. 2026. A New therizinosaur from the Early Cretaceous Jehol Biota and ecomorphological patterns among early therizinosaurians. Journal of Systematic Palaeontology. 24(2); 2710287. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/14772019.2026.2710287 [10 Sep 2026]  

x.com/_HETAKA/status/2098404378852102507

[Herpetology • 2026] Gegeneophis chandgadi • Exploring Cryptic Diversity in Gegeneophis Peters (Gymnophiona: Grandisoniidae) with A Novel Species from the northern Western Ghats, Maharashtra, India

 

Gegeneophis chandgadi

Shikalgar, Patil, Adhav, Kulkarni, Hiragond, Gramapurohit, Tripathy & Dinesh, 2026

Records of the Zoological Survey of India. 126(3); 

recordsofzsi.com

Abstract

A new species of annulocylix caecilian is described from the genus Gegeneophis based on distinct genetic and morphological features. The species is having both primary and secondary annuli, wherein secondary annuli are concentrated at the posterior half of the body. Molecular analysis reveals that the new species is sister to an unknown lineage from Amboli and Gegeneophis mhadeiensis from the near proximity phylogenetically. Molecular phylogeny suggests the possibility of four other new lineages from the northern Western Ghats. The findings are discussed in the light of cryptic diversity of these limbless amphibians and the need for systematic studies to describe them.

Keywords: Amphibians, annulocylix caecilian, homestead areas, tailless caecilian

Gegeneophis chandgadi sp. nov.

Etymology: The species is named after the ‘Chandgadi language’, which is a distinct dialect of the language Marathi, predominantly spoken in and around the type locality Chandgad, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India. The species epithet ‘chandgadi’ is treated as a noun in apposition to the generic name.

  Sahil Shikalgar, Rahul N. Patil, Pranjal Adhav, Nirmal U. Kulkarni, N. C. Hiragond, N. P. Gramapurohit, Basudev Tripathy and K. P. Dinesh. 2026. Exploring Cryptic Diversity in Gegeneophis Peters (Amphibia: Gymnophiona: Grandisoniidae) with A Novel Species from the northern Western Ghats, Maharashtra, India. Records of the Zoological Survey of India. 126(3); 221–236.  DOI: doi.org/10.26515/rzsi/v126/i3/2026/173052 [2026-08-27]

https://recordsofzsi.com/index.php/zsoi/article/view/173052 

[Herpetology • 2026] Duttaphrynus phawngpui • A New Montane Toad Species (Anura: Bufonidae: Duttaphrynus) from Mizoram, northeastern India

Duttaphrynus phawngpui 

 Dawngliana, Warjri, Amarasinghe, Bal, Hruaia, Hlychho, Lalremsanga, Vabeiryureilai & Purkayastha, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.47605/tapro.v15i2.423  

 Researchgate.net/publication/414271782

Abstract

We describe a new montane bufonid toad from Phawngpui National Park, Mizoram, northeastern India, using an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphology, multivariate morphometrics, and mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequence data. Phylogenetic analyses recover the Mizoram population as a well-supported lineage within the Duttaphrynus stuarti species group, distinct from its closest congeners, including D. stuarti, D. chandai, and D. dhara. Uncorrected 16S sequence divergence from currently recognised taxa ranges from 3.8–5.5%, consistent with species-level differentiation in Asian bufonids. Principal component analysis of size-corrected morphometric variables further supports its distinctiveness, with the new species occupying a discrete region of morphospace. The new species is characterized by moderate body size (SVL 47.72–56.26 mm), indistinct tympanum, absence of most cranial ridges, distinctive digital proportions, moderate toe webbing, and a dorsum with glandular warts, irregular dark blotches, and a narrow mid-dorsal stripe. Concordant molecular, morphometric, and morphological evidence supports its recognition as a distinct species. Known only from the type locality in high-elevation (>2000 m a.s.l.) montane habitats, the species highlights the importance of the Mizoram uplands for undocumented amphibian diversity within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

Duttaphrynus phawngpui sp. nov 

Malsawm Dawngliana, Holiness Warjri, A. A. Thasun Amarasinghe, Amit K. Bal, Vanlal Hruaia, Mara D. Hlychho, Hmar T. Lalremsanga, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai and Jayaditya Purkayastha. 2026. A New Montane Toad Species (ANURA: BUFONIDAE: Duttaphrynus) from Mizoram, northeastern INDIA. TAPROBANICA. 15(2); 298–309. DOI: doi.org/10.47605/tapro.v15i2.423 [13 September 2026]  

 Researchgate.net/publication/414271782_A_NEW_MONTANE_TOAD_Duttaphrynus_from_MIZORAM_NE_INDIA

[Botany • 2026] Begonia salog (Begoniaceae, sect. Baryandra) • A New endemic Species from southeastern Luzon, Philippines

 

Begonia salog Dela Cruz, Bucay, Corre, & Valiente, 

in Dela Cruz, Bucay, Corre, Valiente, Tandang et Chung, 2026. 

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2212 

 facebook.com/TaiwaniaOffice

 

Abstract

Begonia salog, a member of section Baryandra, is characterized by rhizomatous growth, axillary protandrous inflorescences with boat-shaped bracts, and ovaries with bifid placentae. While sharing glandular hairs on the inflorescence with B. caramoanensis, it is distinguished by puberulent petioles (vs. tomentose), broadly serrated, non-ciliate leaf margins (vs. shallowly undulate and ciliate), a glabrous abaxial leaf surface (vs. pilose), glabrous bracts (vs. glandular-hairy), and a glabrous ovary (vs. glandular-hairy). Begonia salog is described here as a new species from the karst landscapes of southeastern Luzon, Philippines, with notes on its ecology and habitat, and a preliminary IUCN-based conservation assessment.

Keyword: Begonia caramoanensis, biodiversity conservation, comparative morphology, plant endemism, species delimitation

Begonia salog Dela Cruz, Bucay, Corre, & Valiente.
A. Habitat and habit; B. Rhizome, showing stipules and petiole base; C. Petiole showing vestiture; D. Adaxial leaf lamina; E. Abaxial leaf lamina; F. Staminate flower, face view; G. Pistillate flower, face view; H. Staminate flower, side view; I. Pistillate flower, side view; J. Inflorescence; K. Immature staminate flower showing the bracts and vestiture; L. Dissected stipule; M. Capsule; N. Ovary cross-section.

All from C.J.P. Dela Cruz 0016 (Holotype, PNH)

Begonia salog Dela Cruz, Bucay, Corre, & Valiente, sp nov.

 (§ Baryandra) 

Diagnosis: Begonia salog is characterized by its rhizomatous growth habit, axillary protandrous inflorescences with boat-shaped bracts, and an ovary exhibiting bifid placentation. Begonia salog is morphologically similar to B. caramoanensis (Rubite et al., 2020) in possessing glandular hairs on the inflorescences, but it can be distinguished by several key morphological traits. These include its puberulent (vs. tomentose) petioles; broadly serrate, non-ciliate leaf margins (vs. shallowly undulate to almost entire and ciliate); a glabrous abaxial lamina (vs. pilose with lightgreen to maroon hispid hairs denser along the veins) abaxial leaf lamina; glabrous (vs. glandular-hairy) bracts; and a glabrous (vs. glandular-hairy) ovary. Additional diagnostic differences between the two taxa are detailed in Table 1

Etymology: The epithet salog comes from the Bicolano word meaning ‘river,’ referring to the habitat where the plant was first documented.

Cyrus Job P. Dela Cruz, Mark Angelo C. Bucay, Karen B. Corre, Judy Ann V. Valiente, Danilo N. Tandang and Kuo-Fang Chung. 2026. Begonia salog (Begoniaceae, section Baryandra), A New endemic Species from southeastern Luzon, Philippines.  Taiwania. 71(4); 632-637 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.632 [10 August 2026] 

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2212 

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[Botany • 2026] Begonia andariasii (Begoniaceae) • A New Species from Mamasa, Sulawesi

 

Begonia andariasii  Mustaqim & Ardi,

in Mustaqim et Ardi, 2026.  

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2213 

Abstract

Begonia andariasii (Begoniaceae) is described as a new species endemic to Mamasa Regency, Sulawesi Barat Province, Indonesia. The species is provisionally assigned as Critically Endangered (CR). Detailed descriptions, distribution, photographs, and discussions are given.

Keyword: Begonia ranoposoensis, Cucurbitales, herbs, Indonesia, taxonomy, Wallacea

Morphology of Begonia andariasii.
A. Wild plants. B. Stipule. C. Leaf, adaxial. D. Leaf, abaxial. E. Inflorescence. F. Male flower, lateral view. G. Male flower, frontal view. H. Stamens. I. Female flowers. J. Female flower, frontal view. K. Style and stigmas. L. Cross-section of ovary, also showing placentae. M. Capsules.

Photographs: A–E, F–G by Andarias Sambokaraeng and H–M by Wendy A. Mustaqim,

Begonia andariasii Mustaqim & Ardi, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Begonia andariasii is similar to B. ranoposoensis Saleh, Bandjolu & Ardi but differs in being consistently erect (vs. semi-erect to creeping), longer stipules (14–16 vs. 6‒11 mm long), male inflorescences consisting of 1–2 compressed monochasia, with up to 7 flowers (vs. a thyrse composed of up to 18 partial inflorescences, each compressed-subumbellate and bearing 4–12 flowers), male flowers with more anthers (43–47 vs. 21–29), longer female inflorescence peduncle (9–36 mm vs. 1–3 mm), longer fruiting pedicels (5–6 mm vs. up to 4 mm) and a longer capsule (20–22 mm vs. 9–17 mm). 

Etymology: Named in honour of Andarias Sambokaraeng, also known as Andre, a local plant enthusiast and conservationist whose contributions have revealed the plant diversity of Mamasa to the scientific community and the public.

 Wendy A. Mustaqim and Wisnu H. Ardi. 2026. Begonia andariasii (Begoniaceae), A New Species from Mamasa, Sulawesi.  Taiwania. 71(4); 638-642 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.638 [11 August 2026] 

  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2213

[Botany • 2026] Begonia neelamorum (Begoniaceae, sect. Monophyllon) • A remarkable New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India

 

 Begonia neelamorum  D.Borah & M.Khanal,

in Borah, Khanal, Taram et Gap, 2026.

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2210 

 facebook.com/TaiwaniaOffice 

Abstract

Begonia neelamorum D.Borah & M.Khanal, sect. Monophyllon, is described as a new species from Arunachal Pradesh, India. It closely resembles B. prolifera A.DC. in having a globose tuber, a single, sessile, basifixed leaf with a uniformly light-green lamina, an inflorescence which arises from the base of the sessile leaf blade, and white staminate and pistillate flowers, but differs in its glandular-hispid indumentum, terete stem, ovate lamina with double-serrate margins, a dichasial cyme and shorter styles. The species description is accompanied by illustrations and photographs, and information is provided on its distribution, phenology, ecology, preliminary conservation assessment and similarity to other species.

Keyword: Arunachal Pradesh, Begonia kayinensis, Begonia oyuniae, Begonia prolifera, Himalaya, Monophyllon, new species

 Begonia neelamorum. A. Habit; B. Flowering branch; C. Inflorescence; D-E. Male flowers, front and back views; F. Female flower, side view, G. Female flower, front view; H. Styles; I. Androecium.

(D.Borah, M.Khanal and G.Neelam 2267)

 Begonia neelamorum. A-C. Habitat

Begonia neelamorum D.Borah & M.Khanal, sp. nov. 

sect. Monophyllon

 Diagnosis: Begonia neelamorum D.Borah & M.Khanal is most similar to B. prolifera A.DC. in having a globose tuber, a single, sessile, basifixed leaf with a uniformly light-green lamina, an inflorescence from the base of the lamina and a symmetric or subsymmetric, cordate leaf bases, but differs in its glandular-hispid indumentum (vs. glabrous to subglabrous), stem terete (vs. adaxially grooved), ovate lamina with double-serrate margins (vs. orbicular-cordate lamina with dentate to slightly incised margins, sometimes tuberculate at the edges), dichasial cymes (vs. thyrsoid cyme), shorter styles, 1 mm long (vs. 3 mm)

Etymology: The specific epithet honours the Neelam clan of the Nyishi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, who assisted in the collection of the species during a particularly treacherous expedition. Neelam is also the name of the village inhabited by members of the clan and is among the nearest villages to the type locality from which the species was collected. 

Vernacular name: Kobiirhopu Baabrai (Nyishi) 

 Dipankar Borah, Madhusudhan Khanal, Momang Taram and Neelam Gap. 2026. Begonia neelamorum (Begoniaceae sect. Monophyllon), A remarkable New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India. Taiwania. 71(4); 617-620. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.617 [05 August 2026]

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2210 

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[Botany • 2026] Raphiocarpus flavus (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the limestone karst areas, Northern Vietnam

Raphiocarpus flavus Y.G.Wei, F.Wen, Z.B.Xin, & T.V.Do, 

in Xin, Wei, Maciejewski, Fu, Qian, Wen et Do, 2026. 

黃花漏斗苣苔  | taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2207 

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Abstract

Raphiocarpus flavus Y.G.Wei, F.Wen, Z.B.Xin, & T.V.Do, a new species from Ninh Bình Province and Hanoi City, Vietnam, is described and illustrated. This species is morphologically similar to R. asper (Drake) B.L.Burtt but can be distinguished by its stem height, absence of scabrous punctations, internode length, 3-whorled leaves, leaf size and indumentum, axillary inflorescences, corolla length, color and indumentum, and 2-lipped corolla limb. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, this new species has been provisionally assessed as Least Concern (LC).

Keyword: Cuc Phuong National Park, Flora of Vietnam, Huong Pagoda, new taxon, Raphiocarpus asper

Raphiocarpus flavus Y.G.Wei, F.Wen, Z.B.Xin, & T.V.Do, sp. nov.
A–C. Habitat; D. Adaxial leaf blade; E. Abaxial leaf blade; F. Cymes; G. Bracts and bracteoles; H. Lateral view of the corolla; I. Top view of the corolla; J. Sepals; K. Pistil and disc; L. Opened corolla with stamens and staminode

(Photographed by Fang Wen, Plate arranged by Zi-Bing Xin).

Raphiocarpus flavus Y.G.Wei, F.Wen, Z.B.Xin, & T.V.Do, sp. nov. 

黃花漏斗苣苔  

Diagnosis: Raphiocarpus flavus is morphologically similar to R. asper (Drake) B.L.Burtt, but can be easily distinguished by its stems 1–1.8 m (vs. 0.4–0.5 m), scabrous punctations absent (vs. present), internodes 10– 12 cm (vs. 5–6 cm), 3-whorled leaves (vs. opposite), leaves almost glabrous (vs. densely appressed puberulent to pubescent), inflorescences axillary (vs. terminal), corolla glabrous (vs. densely pubescent), 2-lipped limb (vs. with 5 nearly equal lobes).

Etymology: The specific epithet "flavus" is derived from its unique yellowish corolla.

 

Zi-Bing Xin, Yi-Gang Wei, Stephen Maciejewski, Jia-Xin Fu, Xiao-Mao Qian, Fang Wen and Truong Van Do. 2026. Raphiocarpus flavus (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from the limestone karst areas, Northern Vietnam. Taiwania. 71(3); 592-596 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.592 [2026 July 11]

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2207 

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[Botany • 2026] Typhonium gonos • A New Species from Northern Thailand and a new synonym [Studies on Typhonium (Araceae: Areae) of Thailand VII]

 

 Typhonium gonos K.Z.Hein & Saensouk, 

in Hein, P. Saensouk, Rakarcha, Warseno et S. Saensouk, 2026.

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2214 

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Abstract

Typhonium gonos K.Z.Hein & Saensouk is described and illustrated as a species new to science, restricted to Permian limestone in Phrae Province, Northern Thailand, and compared with its probable closest congener, T. sinhabaedyae Hett. & A.Galloway from Tak Province. In addition, T. pusillum Sookch., V.D.Nguyen & Hett. is newly synonymized under T. gagnepainii J.Murata & Sookch.

Keyword: Aroideae, heterotypic synonym, Indochina, Northern Thailand, permian limestone, plant taxonomy

 Typhonium gonos sp. nov.
 A. Flowering individuals in habitat. B. Plants in habitat showing leaf blade variation within a population.

Photos by T. Uttarapong.

 Typhonium gonos sp. nov.
A. Excavated flowering plant. B. Leaf blade showing abaxial surface. C. Side view of anthomorph at pistillate anthesis. D. Front view of anthomorph at pistillate anthesis. E. Side view of anthomorph at pistillate anthesis (nearside spathe artificially removed to expose the spadix).

Scale bars: A–B.=3 cm, C–E.=5 mm. Photos by T. Sangchun and K.Z. Hein.

Detail of the spadices, each showing pistillate zone, sterile interstice, staminate zone and base of appendix (the near side of the spathe artificially removed).
A. Typhonium gonos sp. nov. B. T. sinhabaedyae.

Scale bars: A-B = 5 mm. Photos by T. Sangchun and K.Z. Hein.

Typhonium gonos K.Z.Hein & Saensouk, sp. nov. 

 Type: THAILAND. Northern: Phrae Province, Long District, Ta Pha Mok Subdistrict, elev. ca. 260 m, 11 May 2026, T. Uttarapong 001 (holotype: ! [spirit collection]; isotype: VMSU! [spirit collection]). 

Diagnosis: Typhonium gonos most closely resembles T. sinhabaedyae Hett. & A.Galloway (Fig. 3B) in its anthomorph, but differs in having a sterile interstice bearing distantly arranged staminodes only in the middle portion, with the lower and upper portions naked (vs. tightly arranged staminodes restricted to the lower part of the sterile interstice immediately above the pistillate zone in T. sinhabaedyae), and a stigma narrower than the ovary narrower than the ovary (vs. wider than the ovary in T. sinhabaedyae).

Etymology: The specific epithet gonos is derived from the Greek γόνος (gonos), meaning seed, semen, or seminal fluid, in allusion to the odour reminiscent of seminal fluid emitted by the anthomorph during pistillate anthesis, and is used as a noun in apposition. 

Details of the spadices of Typhonium gagnepainii showing variation in the shape of the staminodes (A.–C. All specimens originally collected from the same locality).

Scale bars: A-C = 5 mm. Photos by K.Z. Hein.

Khant Zaw Hein, Piyaporn Saensouk, Sarayut Rakarcha, Tri Warseno and Surapon Saensouk. 2026. Studies on Typhonium (Araceae — Areae) of Thailand VII: A New Species and a new synonym.  Taiwania. 71(4); 643-648. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.643 [12 August 2026]

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2214

  Researchgate.net/publication/412535832_Studies_on_Typhonium_of_Thailand_VII_A_new_species 

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[Botany • 2026] Typhonium mukdahanense • A New Species (Araceae) from Northeastern Thailand

 

Typhonium mukdahanense Chatan & Promprom,

in Promprom, Munglue, Phannasri et Chatan, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/life1608

Abstract

Typhonium is one of the most species-rich genera of Araceae in tropical Asia, with north-eastern Thailand representing an important but still incompletely documented area of diversity. During botanical surveys in northeastern Thailand, an unusual population of Typhonium was discovered in mixed deciduous forest and dry evergreen forest at 300–400 m elevation. Detailed morphological study of living plants and herbarium specimens, together with comparisons with relevant protologues, regional floras, and recently described species, confirmed that this population represents a species new to science. It is here described as Typhonium mukdahanense Chatan & Promprom, sp. nov. The new species is morphologically most similar to T. fornicatum, but differs by its taller habit, larger hastate to trisect leaf blades, more numerous primary lateral veins, larger and nearly symmetrical spathe tube, triangular reflexed spathe limb, dark red stigma with a cream-colored depressed center, sterile interstice bearing 10–14 staminodes arranged in two whorls, slightly curved and not spreading–declinate appendix, and pyriform mottled berries. It also differs from T. acetosella by its broader leaf blades, reflexed triangular spathe limb, dark red stigma, and pyriform fruits. The new species is currently known only from the type locality and is therefore provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. A detailed description, diagnosis, information on distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status, and an identification key to morphologically similar species are provided.

Keywords: aroid; Indochina; nomenclature; plant diversity

Typhonium mukdahanense.
 (A, B) Habitat and habit under natural field conditions; (C–F) Habit of cultivated plants; (G) Whole plant.

 Typhonium mukdahanense.
 (A) Tuber and roots; (B,E) Leaf blades (adaxial surfaces); (C,D,F) Leaf blades (abaxial surfaces).

 Typhonium mukdahanense.
 (A) Basal portion of the spadix showing the pistillate zone, staminodes, and sterile interstice; (B) Appendix; (C) Enlarged view of the pistillate zone, staminodes, and sterile interstice; (D) Pistils; (E) Enlarged view of a pistil; (F) Staminate zone; (G,H) Stamens in top and lateral views, respectively.

 Typhonium mukdahanense.
(A, B) Naturally damaged infructescence in the field;
(C, D) Infructescence before and after longitudinal sectioning.

Typhonium mukdahanense Chatan & Promprom, sp. nov.  

 Diagnosis: Typhonium mukdahanense Chatan & Promprom, sp. nov., is most similar to Typhonium fornicatum in its clustered leaves and small inflorescences, but differs by its taller habit (up to 18 cm vs. up to 10 cm tall); larger hastate to trisect leaf blades (8–12 × 6.5–9.5 cm vs. 5.0–6.5 × 2.6–2.8 cm); more numerous primary lateral veins (5–8 vs. 3–4 per side of the midrib); larger and nearly symmetrical spathe tube (12–15 mm long vs. 8–9 mm long); triangular reflexed spathe limb with the adaxial surface facing upwards (vs. lanceolate and fornicate); longer spadix (9.5–10 cm vs. ca. 7 cm long); stigma dark red with a cream-colored depressed center (vs. white); sterile interstice bearing 10–14 staminodes arranged in two whorls (vs. only three staminodes arranged in single whorl); appendix slightly curved and not spreading-declinate (vs. spreading-declinate); and pyriform berries irregularly mottled or speckled with reddish- to purplish-brown markings (vs. clavate berries with darker brown mottling). A detailed morphological comparison between the new species and its most similar species is provided in Table 1.

...

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to its type locality, Mukdahan Province, in northeastern Thailand.

 Wilawan Promprom, Phukphon Munglue, Chuthep Phannasri and Wannachai Chatan. 2026. Discovery of Typhonium mukdahanense (Araceae), a New Species from Northeastern Thailand. Life. 16(8), 1376. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/life16081376 [20 August 2026]