[Entomology • 2025] Lyriothemis abrahami • A New Species of Lyriothemis Brauer, 1868 (Odonata: Libellulidae) from the Western Ghats of Peninsular India

 

Lyriothemis abrahami  Sadasivan, Jose, Nair & Palot, 

in Sadasivan, Jose, Palot, Sudheer, Augustine, Kochunarayanan, Nair et George, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.33307/entomon.v50i2.1470  

Researchgate.net/publication/393568494

Abstract

A new species of phytotelma-breeding dragonfly, Lyriothemis abrahami sp. nov., is described from the Western Ghats of Peninsular India. The new taxon was previously misidentified as L. flava Oguma, 1915 (= L. tricolor Ris, 1916). In contrast to L. flava, the new species is sexually dimorphic, with males easily identified based on the characteristic shape of the hamules. Females are identified by their jet black and yellow colour with triangular yellow streaks on the dorsum of the abdomen and the distinct triangular shape of the vulvar lamina. Photographs of mature adults, tenerals, hamules, illustrations of vesica seminalis, vulvar lamina, and a key to Lyriothemis of the Indian subcontinent are provided.

KEY WORDS: Anisoptera, new taxon, taxonomy, dragonfly, phytotelmata, Kerala

Lyriothemis abrahami sp. nov. Holotype TORG # 1053.
A–lateral view of the holotype; B–close-up of head; C–lateral view of segment 2; D–dorsal view of head, prothorax and synthorax; E–lateral view of head, prothorax, and synthorax; F–dorsal view of abdomen; G–lateral view of abdomen; H–dorsal view of S8–10, and anal appendages; I–lateral view of S8–10, and anal appendages. © Kalesh Sadasivan

Lyriothemis abrahami sp. nov. in life.
A–mature male from Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary © Kalesh Sadasivan; B–lateral view of a teneral male © Jebine Jose; C–dorsal view of a teneral male © Jebine Jose; D–lateral view of a teneral female © Jebine Jose; E–dorsal view of a teneral female © Jebine Jose; F–female ovipositing in a phytotelma © Jebine Jose. (B–E, reared from the larvae collected in Pooyamkutty, Ernakulam District, Kerala)

Lyriothemis abrahami Sadasivan, Jose, Nair & Palot, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Males of Lyriothemis abrahami sp. nov. are identified by the combination of the following characters: two short oval paradorsal streaks on the mesepisternum not extending halfway up the thorax towards the alar sinus; anterolateral yellow thoracic band as broad as or narrower than the black area just posterior to it; in anteroventral view hamule trapezoid, higher than wide; hamular inferolateral angle right-angled and well-defined, medial border with a distinct insinuation at the junction of its inferior and middle third, inferior border straight. The elongated shape of the hamule is a distinct characteristic of the new taxon. Sexual dimorphism is strongly exhibited in L. abrahami sp. nov., with the females identified by their jet-black and yellow colour with characteristic triangular yellow streaks on the dorsum of the abdomen and the distinct triangular shape of the vulvar lamina. The new species is endemic to the Western Ghats of Peninsular India, south of Coorg, and its distribution does not overlap with the range of L. flava, as far as it is known.

Etymology. The species is named after Dr. Abraham Samuel, a pioneer of odonatology from Kerala, for his contributions to the field and his constant encouragement to the authors. The specific epithet is a noun in the genitive case.

Kalesh Sadasivan, Jebine Jose, Muhamed Jafer Palot, Shanas Sudheer, Toms Augustine, Baiju Kochunarayanan, Vinayan Padmanabhan Nair and Maya George. 2025. A New Species of Lyriothemis Brauer, 1868 (Odonata, Libellulidae) from the Western Ghats of Peninsular India.  ENTOMON. 50(2); 203-214. DOI: doi.org/10.33307/entomon.v50i2.1470 [2025-06-30]

 Researchgate.net/publication/393568494_A_new_species_of_Lyriothemis_from_the_Western_Ghats_of_Peninsular_India

[Mollusca • 2025] Songkhlanaia songkhramensis • An integrative approach to A Revision of the freshwater mussel Genus Songkhlanaia (Bivalvia: Unionidae), with the Description of A New Species

 Songkhlanaia songkhramensis sp. nov.

Jeratthitikul, Sutcharit & Prasankok, 2025

S. tamodienica, Songkhla Lake Basin, Thailand; 
 S. moreleti, Tonle Sap Basin, Thailand  

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1224.140549  

facebook.com/ASRUChula

Abstract

Mainland Southeast Asia, also known as Indochina, is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot for freshwater mussels, hosting a significant number of species and exhibiting high levels of endemism. Recently, the monotypic genus Songkhlanaia was described from the Songkhla Lake Basin in southern Thailand. In this study, two additional lineages are revealed, S. moreleti comb. nov. and S. songkhramensis sp. nov., from the Mekong Basin through an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. The multi-locus phylogenetic inference supported the monophyly of the genus and further elucidated the sister relationship between S. moreleti and the new species, and with S. tamodienica positioned as a basal lineage. Pairwise uncorrected COI p-distances among these three species also supported the species validity and ranged from 4.2% to 8.24%. Notably, S. songkhramensis sp. nov. and S. moreleti exhibit similarities in shell morphology; however, the new species can be differentiated by more robust pseudocardinal teeth. Both species are distinguishable from S. tamodienica by their approximately twice larger size, more inflated shells, and more prominent, roughened, irregular growth lines on the shell surface. Furthermore, based on the current data, these three species are recognized as endemic and are restricted to disjunct biogeographic areas in Indochina: S. tamodienica in the Songkhla Lake Basin in southern Thailand, S. moreleti in the Tonle Sap and Lower Mekong basins, and S. songkhramensis sp. nov. in the Songkhram Basin and its nearby tributaries of the Middle Mekong Basin.

Key words: Freshwater mussels, Indochina, Mekong Basin, multi-locus phylogeny, new taxa, Pseudodontini, taxonomic revision, Thailand

Family Unionidae Rafinesque, 1820

Subfamily Gonideinae Ortmann, 1916

Tribe Pseudodontini Frierson, 1927

Subtribe Pseudodontina Frierson, 1927

Genus Songkhlanaia Konopleva, Lheknim, Sriwoon, Kondakov, Vikhrev & Bolotov, 2023

Songkhlanaia Konopleva et al., 2023: 13, 14. Bolotov et al. 2023: 12.

Type species: Songkhlanaia tamodienica Konopleva, Lheknim, Sriwoon, Kondakov, Vikhrev & Bolotov in Konopleva et al. 2023 (by original designation).

Species included: Songkhlanaia currently consists of three species: S. tamodienica (type species), S. moreleti comb. nov., and S. songkhramensis sp. nov.

Shells of Songkhlanaia songkhramensis sp. nov. 
A holotype MUMNH-UNI3024 and B paratype MUMNH-UNI3023 from Prahang River, Songkhram Basin, Thailand C specimen MUMNH-UNI0925 from Songkhram River, Songkhram Basin, Thailand.

Pseudocardinal teeth, left valve on the left-hand side, and right valve on the right-hand side
A S. tamodienica, topotype MUMNH-UNI2956 from Tamot Stream, Songkhla Lake Basin, Thailand B S. moreleti, specimen MUMNH-UNI0301 from Phrom Hot Stream, Tonle Sap Basin, Thailand C S. songkhramensis sp. nov., holotype MUMNH-UNI3024 from Prahang River, Songkhram Basin, Thailand. Scale bars: 10 mm.

 Ekgachai Jeratthitikul, Chirasak Sutcharit and Pongpun Prasankok. 2025. An integrative approach to A Revision of the freshwater mussel Genus Songkhlanaia (Bivalvia, Unionidae), with the Description of A New Species. ZooKeys. 1224: 187-209. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1224.140549

  facebook.com/ASRUChula/posts/1032639838880745 

[Botany • 2026] Gaultheria watsonii (Ericaceae) • A New Species from Sikim Himalaya

 

Gaultheria watsonii D.Maity, A.K.Halder and S.Saha,

in Maity, Halder, Saha, Panda, Jha et Pradhan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3606

Abstract

A new species of Gaultheria L. (Ericaceae) from the Sikkim Himalaya, Gaultheria watsonii, is described and illustrated. This species is  morphologically most similar to Gaultheria heteromera in terms of habit, especially in its procumbent branchlets and tetramerous flowers. However, it can be readily distinguished from all other known species of the genus, including Gaultheria heteromera, by its unique combination of morphological characters, namely prostrate habit with procumbent branchlets, adaxially smooth and smaller leaf blades with strongly acute and mucronulate apices, pseudoterminal 2- to 4-flowered racemes, longer rachis, shorter pedicel, 4-merous flowers, and ovary sparsely white hispidulous with conspicuously 8- to 10-lobed discs. Based on its limited geographical distribution and the continuing decline in habitat quality, the conservation status of the new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered [CR B2ab(iii)] according to the IUCN Red List criteria.

Keywords: Critically Endangered (CR), Gaultheria series Leucothoides (Airy Shaw) D. J. Middleton, Himalaya, IUCN

Gaultheria watsonii D.Maity, A.K.Halder and S.Saha, sp. nov.
 A, Habit and habitat; B, inflorescence; C, flower.

Photographs: A. K. Halder.

Gaultheria watsonii D.Maity, A.K.Halder and S.Saha, sp. nov.

The new species is most similar to Gaultheria heteromera, from which it differs by having smaller leaf blades (4–10 × 3–5 mm vs 8–25(–30) × 5–14 mm), strongly acute leaf apex (vs obtuse), smaller petioles (0.5–0.75 mm vs 1–3 mm), pseudoterminal racemes (vs pseudoterminal and axillary), longer rachis (5–15 mm vs 3–6(–10) mm), shorter pedicel (1–1.75 mm vs 3–6 mm), bract and bracteoles with margins densely ciliolate (vs eciliolate), 8 stamens (vs 8 or 9), and ovary with conspicuous shallowly lobed disc (vs disc absent). In Gaultheria heteromera the veins on the adaxial surface of leaves are distinctly impressed, forming prominent reticulations, whereas in the new species although sometimes the midvein is slightly depressed adaxially, the secondary and tertiary veins are not impressed and thus the upper surface appears smooth. Moreover, in Gaultheria watsonii the ovary is sparsely white-hispidulous, whereas in G. heteromera the ovary is densely hispidulous.

D. Maity, A. K. Halder, S. Saha, S. Panda, B. K. Jha and D. K. Pradhan. 2026. GAULTHERIA WATSONII (ERICACEAE): A New Species from Sikim HIMALAYA. EDINBURGH JOURNAL OF BOTANY. 83, 3606. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3606 [2026-08-24]

[Botany • 2026] Typhonium boonmae • A New Species from central Thailand [Studies on Typhonium (Araceae: Areae) of Thailand VI]

 Typhonium boonmae K.Z.Hein, P.Saensouk & Saensouk,

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

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05154

Abstract

A species new to science, Typhonium boonmae K.Z.Hein, P.Saensouk and Saensouk, is described and illustrated from Saraburi and Lop Buri Provinces, central Thailand. A detailed description, color plates, comparisons with similar taxa, phenology, distribution, ecology, and a preliminary conservation status assessment are provided.

Keywords: colluvial deposit, Indochina, pedatisect leaf blade, Typhonium bognerianum, Typhonium watanabei

Typhonium boonmae sp. nov. 
(A) Excavated flowering individuals, (B) leaf blade of mature leaf (left showing adaxial surface, right showing abaxial surface), (C) leaf blade of first seasonal leaf (left showing adaxial surface, right showing abaxial surface), (D) leaf blade of juvenile leaf (left showing adaxial surface, right showing abaxial surface), (E) inflorescence at pistillate anthesis (left showing front view, middle showing back view, right showing side view), (F) spadix at pistillate anthesis (nearside of spathe artificially removed), (G) detail of spadix showing pistillate zone, sterile interstice, and staminate zone (nearside of spathe artificially removed).

Scale bars: (A) = 5 cm, (B), (C), (E), and (F) = 2 cm, (D) = 1 cm, (G) = 5 mm. 

Photos by T. Boonma and K. Z. Hein.

Typhonium boonmae K.Z.Hein, P.Saensouk & Saensouk sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: A species similar to T. bognerianum J.Murata and Sookch. (Hetterscheid et al. 2001) (Fig. 3A) and T. watanabei J.Murata, Sookch. and Hett. (Murata et al. 2002) (Fig. 3C) in having pedatisect leaf blades with five to seven narrowly linear lobes and similar inflorescence morphology. Typhonium boonmae differs from T. bognerianum by having a stigma narrower than the ovary (versus stigma wider than the ovary), staminodes arranged in a single whorl accompanied by an upper incomplete whorl (versus staminodes arranged in 6–7 whorls), and a sessile appendix (versus stipitate appendix). Typhonium boonmae differs from T. watanabei by having filiform staminodes with acute apices (versus clavate-fusiform staminodes with obtuse or rounded apices), a staminate zone diameter equal to the diameter of the appendix at its base (versus appendix base wider than staminate zone), and a pale yellow to pinkish-orange appendix (versus blackish-grey appendix).

Typhonium boonmae sp. nov. (A) Mature flowering individuals in a clump in situ, (B) inflorescences in situ, left one at post-staminate anthesis and right one at pistillate anthesis.

Photos by T. Boonma and K. Z. Hein.

Details of spadices of Typhonium species with pedatisect leaf blades having narrowly linear lobes (spathe artificially removed).
(A) T. bognerianum, (B) T. boonmae sp. nov., (C) T. watanabei, (D) T. vietnamense, (E) T. lineare, (F) T. pallescens, (G) T. edule.

Photos by K. Z. Hein ((A), (B), (C), (F) and (G), Nguyen Van Canh (D), and Vuong Ba Truong (E)).

Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Khant Zaw Hein, Sarayut Rakarcha and Khamfa Chanthavongsa. 2026. Studies on Typhonium (Araceae – Areae) of Thailand VI: Typhonium boonmae sp. nov. from central Thailand. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05154 [31 August 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Dasypeltis albigularis • A New Species of ‘black’ egg-eating Snake of the Genus Dasypeltis Wagler (Colubridae: Colubrinae: Boigini)

Dasypeltis albigularis Tiutenko, Heller & Bates, 2026

[A] Dasypeltis atra Sternfeld, 1912 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e205043 

Abstract

Based on morphology, biogeography, biology, and the results of a molecular phylogenetic analysis, a new species of Dasypeltis is described from Harenna Forest in the southern Somalian plateau in Ethiopia. It is a medium-sized member of the genus (females up to 92 cm total length, males up to 58 cm), usually uniformly black dorsally but occasionally light brown with a dense and somewhat irregular pattern of narrow brown saddles and vertically elongate lateral markings, sometimes forming bands across the back, and small white spots and streaks, or reddish-brown with indistinct darker dorsal and lateral markings. Interstitial skin is light grey, appearing bluish in adults. Infralabials, chin shields, gulars, and 20–62 anterior ventral plates (medially) are mostly white, the other plates being ash-grey or black in colour. Scales in the first row of dorsals on either side of the body are smooth or almost smooth; those of the second row are weakly keeled; other dorsal scales are moderately keeled with two apical pits each. Pairwise genetic distance between the new species and its closest congener, D. atra, is similar to or greater than the distances between some long-recognised species in the genus. The new species is also geographically and ecologically isolated from closely related congeners.

Key Words: Dasypeltis albigularis sp. nov., Dasypeltis atra, Dasypeltis fasciata, Dasypeltis gansi, egg-eater, Harenna Forest, Horn of Africa, Serpentes, Somalia, taxonomy

A. Dasypeltis atra from Chuka, Kenya (ZSM 328/2023);
B. Dasypeltis albigularis sp. nov. from the Harenna Forest, Ethiopia (ZSM 94/2019).

A patterned specimen (HFE2025-023) of Dasypeltis albigularis sp. nov. from the Harenna Forest, Ethiopia.

Male Dasypeltis albigularis sp. nov. (HFE2025-002) from Manyate village, Harenna Forest, Ethiopia. Note the bluish interstitial skin.

Dasypeltis albigularis sp. nov.

Diagnosis. A medium-sized Dasypeltis (females approximately 90 cm in total length, males less than 60 cm). Dorsally usually uniformly dark-grey or blackish, seldom reddish-brown with faint dark streaks; or light yellow-brown with a dense and irregular pattern of small brown saddles and narrow brown bars on the flanks, and numerous small white markings. Interstitial skin light grey, sometimes bluish, especially in adults. Anterior infralabials, gulars, chin shields and 20–62 anterior ventral plates mostly white, other ventrals gradually transition to ash-grey. Dorsal scales arranged around midbody in 20–23 rows. Scales of the first row of dorsals on either side of the body very weakly keeld or smooth and much larger than other dorsal scales. Scales of the second row on either side of body weakly keeled. Other dorsal scales each with a moderate median keel and a pair of apical pits distally. Head with fine white spots and speckles. Supralabials 7, 3rd and 4th bordering orbit. Postocular single. Frontal shield pitted in only one row around edges. Inter-prefrontal sulcus moderately marked, not deep. Prefrontal scales longer and larger overall than internasals. Rostral shield visible from above head.

Etymology. The specific Latin epithet ‘albigularis’ means ‘white-throated’ and refers to the pale ventral colouration on the lower parts of the head and anterior parts of the body of the new species.

Arthur Tiutenko, Tim L. Heller and Michael F. Bates. 2026. A New Species of ‘black’ egg-eating Snake of the Genus Dasypeltis Wagler (Squamata, Colubridae, Colubrinae, Boigini). Herpetozoa. 39: 343-366. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e205043 [27 Aug 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Didiclis pseudobisulcata (Selaginellaceae) • A New Species of the Bisulcata group from northern Thailand and southwest China

  

Didiclis pseudobisulcata  X.M.Zhou & Liang Zhang,

in Gong, Hu, Pollawatn, Chantanaorrapint, Wang, Zhang et Zhou. 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.204624

Abstract

Didiclis pseudobisulcata (Lycopodioidoideae, Selaginellaceae), a new lycophyte species from northern Thailand and southwest China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is similar to D. bisulcata but can be reliably distinguished by its dorsal leaves on branches with an arista often more than 3/4 of the leaf length, the densely ciliolate base of the dorsal sporophyll pteryx, and megaspores with subreticulate exospore ornamentation. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on ITS and rbcL sequences supports this species as an independent clade. The ITS sequences revealed more than 42 nucleotide differences between the new species and other members of the Bisulcata group, providing clear molecular evidence for its separation from its closest relatives.

Key words: Asia, Lycopodioidoideae, megaspore and microspore, phylogeny

Field photographs of Didiclis pseudobisulcata.
 A, B. Plant in its natural habitat; C. Dorsal view of stems and branches with strobili; D. Ventral view of stems and branches with strobili; E. Dorsal view of strobilus; F. Ventral view of strobilus; G. Dorsal view of a portion of the main stem, showing ventral and dorsal leaves; H. Dorsal view of a portion of a branch, showing ventral and dorsal leaves; I. Ventral view of a portion of the main stem, showing axillary and ventral leaves; J. Ventral view of a portion of a branch, showing axillary and ventral leaves.

(from voucher: Liang Zhang, Xin-Mao Zhou, Lu-Yao Jiang, & Xu-Ke Han 5734).

Didiclis pseudobisulcata X.M.Zhou & Liang Zhang, sp. nov.

 Sheng-Rong Gong, Yu-Ping Hu, Rossarin Pollawatn, Sahut Chantanaorrapint, Wen Wang, Liang Zhang and Xin-Mao Zhou. 2026. Didiclis pseudobisulcata (Selaginellaceae), A New Species of the Bisulcata group from northern Thailand and southwest China. PhytoKeys. 278: 233-246. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.204624

[Fungi • 2026] Clonostachys kasetsartana (Hypocreales) • A Novel epiphytic Fungus isolated from the mangrove leaves in Thailand

Clonostachys kasetsartana   

in Sahathippayakul​, Supapongsri​, Kuncharoen​, Suwannarach et Lueangjaroenkit, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1099/ijsem.0.007273

Abstract

Two fungal isolates, DMKU-RG2M15ᵀ and DMKU-RG2P11, were isolated from the phylloplane of healthy leaves of the mangrove tree Ceriops tagal (Perr.) C.B. Rob., collected in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. Their taxonomic placement was investigated using a polyphasic approach based on morphological, physiological and multilocus phylogenetic analyses. Colonies produced primary conidiophores with verticillate branching, bearing hyaline, smooth-walled, oval to ellipsoidal conidia. Phylogenetic analyses based on a combined dataset of the internal transcribed spacer region, the large subunit rRNA gene, translation elongation factor 1-α, β-tubulin and RNA polymerase II second-largest subunit resolved the two isolates as a distinct and well-supported monophyletic lineage within the genus Clonostachys. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the two isolates are closely related to Clonostachys mangrovei, Clonostachys viticola and Clonostachys reniformis. Morphological and physiological comparisons further distinguished the isolates from their closest relatives. The congruence between phylogenetic and phenotypic data supports the recognition of the two isolates as representing a distinct species. Accordingly, both strains are proposed as a novel species of Clonostachys, for which the name Clonostachys kasetsartana sp. nov. is introduced.

 Keywords: fungal taxonomy, leaf habitat, mangrove forest, multilocus phylogeny and novel fungus

Clonostachys kasetsartana sp. nov.

 

Ananya Sahathippayakul​, Vassana Supapongsri​, Nattakorn Kuncharoen​, Nakarin Suwannarach and Piyangkun Lueangjaroenkit. 2026. Clonostachys kasetsartana sp. nov., A Novel epiphytic Fungus isolated from the mangrove leaves in Thailand. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology. 76(8); DOI: doi.org/10.1099/ijsem.0.007273 [19 August 2026]

รายงานการค้นพบเชื้อรา Clonostachys สปีชีส์ใหม่ของโลก คือ Clonostachys kasetsartana ซึ่งแยกได้จากบนผิวใบของต้นโปรงแดง (Ceriops tagal) ในสวนพฤกษศาสตร์ป่าชายเลนนานาชาติ รัชกาลที่ 9 จังหวัดจันทบุรี

 facebook.com/oryzanol.khoe/posts/10164300296533497

[Botany • 2022] Eriocaulon pandeyana (Eriocaulaceae) • A New Species from southern Western Ghats, India

 

Eriocaulon pandeyana Nampy, Harishma & Vishnu,  

in Harishma, Mohan et Nampy, 2022.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.539.3.6 

Researchgate.net/publication/359299628

Abstract  

Eriocaulon pandeyana from the Idukki district in Kerala is here described as a new species of Eriocaulaceae. It closely resembles E. ramnadense but is distinct by having oblong-lanceolate, lobed, acute, hyaline involucral bracts, oblanceolate, acuminate floral bracts, 3 sub-equal male petals, 3 unequal, slightly hoary female sepals and yellow, elliptic seeds with transversely elongated or isodiametric seed coat cells. The differences between the other similar species are also discussed. Since adequate data on abundance and distribution are lacking, the new species is provisionally listed under the category Data Deficient (DD) as per IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Keywords: Monocots, Data Deficient, Eriocaulon quinquangulare, Eriocaulon truncatum, Idukki district, Koymanchola

Eriocaulon pandeyana Nampy, Harishma & Vishnu sp. nov.

Kuttukaran Haridasan HARISHMA, Vishnu MOHAN and Santhosh NAMPY. 2022. Eriocaulon pandeyana (Eriocaulaceae), A New Species from southern Western Ghats, India.  Phytotaxa. 539(3); 273-279. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.539.3.6

 Researchgate.net/publication/359299628_Eriocaulon_pandeyana_a_new_species_from_southern_Western_Ghats_India

[Botany • 2026] Primula pingwuensis (Primulaceae) • A New Species in Primula sect. Auganthus from Sichuan, China

Primula pingwuensis Y.Hu, J.L.Gu & S.Y.Zhang,  

in Zhang, Fang, Y.-F. Hu, Y. Hu, Gu, Wu et Shao, 2026. 

Primula (China.  . 278: 247-258.

平武报春  | DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.204611

Abstract

Primula pingwuensis sp. nov., a new species of Primula sect. Auganthus from Sichuan, China, is described. It resembles P. sinensis in having palmately lobed leaves and multi-whorled inflorescences but differs by its multi-branched stems, more densely short-pubescent surfaces, thicker chartaceous leaves, narrower leaf blades, and indistinct translucent nectar guides. A taxonomic key covering all nine known species of Primula sect. Auganthus is compiled herein to support field morphological discrimination. A chloroplast genome-based phylogeny shows that P. pingwuensis is sister to P. rongrong, and this clade is sister to P. fujiangensis. Incongruence between morphology and molecular phylogeny is observed within the section. Leaf-lobing patterns have undergone multiple independent evolutionary transitions during adaptive radiation in karst habitats, indicating that a few morphological traits cannot be used to reliably infer interspecific relationships. The new species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD) following IUCN criteria, owing to the lack of long-term observations of its threat status and population dynamics. This study provides new data for the taxonomy and evolution of Primula sect. Auganthus.

Key words: Phylogeny, Primula, sect. Auganthus, Sichuan, taxonomy

Primula pingwuensis sp. nov.
A, B. Habitat; C. Flowering plant in the wild;
Da. Flowering plant; Db. Root; Dc. Adaxial surface; Dd. Abaxial surface; De. Front view of pin flower; Df. Front view of thrum flower; Dg. Longitudinal section of thrum flower; Dh. Longitudinal section of pin flower; Di. Bract; Dj. Young fruits; Dk. Young fruit, showing ovary.

Primula pingwuensis Y.Hu, J.L.Gu & S.Y.Zhang, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Primula pingwuensis is morphologically similar to P. sinensis in having palmately lobed leaves and multi-whorled scapes but differs by its multi-branched stems, densely pubescent indumentum, thickly chartaceous leaves (vs. submembranous in P. sinensis), narrower blades (3–6 cm wide), 2–3 flower whorls, and indistinct translucent ...

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from Pingwu County, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province, the type locality of the new species, which is also an important habitat of the giant panda.

Chinese name. Píng Wŭ Bào Chūn (平武报春).

 Si-Yu Zhang, Ming Fang, Ying-Feng Hu, Yang Hu, Jiu-Lin Gu, Zhi-Kun Wu and Jian-Wen Shao. 2026. Primula pingwuensis (Primulaceae), A New Species in Primula sect. Auganthus from Sichuan, China. PhytoKeys. 278: 247-258. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.204611 [25 Aug 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Thismia daemona (Thismiaceae) • A New Species of Thismia sect. Geomitra from Thailand supported by morphological and molecular evidence

 

Thismia daemona Seelanan & Chantanaorr.,

in Seelanan, Chantapram, Taosiri, Chuchuea et Chantanaorrapint, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.202868

Abstract

A new species of Thismia from Thailand, Thismia daemona is described based on morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Morphological characters were examined from fresh and spirit materials using a stereo microscope. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted based on three nuclear (SSU, ITS, LSU) and two mitochondrial (atpA, matR) markers. The new species is characterized by coralliform roots, blackish flowers, reddish orange and fleshy outer tepals, inner tepals forming a mitre with three slender claviform appendages, inner surface of floral tube possessing irregular transverse bars in lower half and finely reticulations in upper half, epidermis of transverse bars and reticulations covered with white translucent trichomes, and translucent blue stamens with recurved apex. Phylogenetic analyses support its placement within Thismia sect. Geomitra, with a sister relationship to T. betung-kerihunensis. In addition, the new species is assessed as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List categories and criteria.

Key words: Achlorophyllous plants, conservation status, coralliform root, endemic species

Thismia daemona Seelanan & Chantanaorr.
A. Underground part showing hairy roots; B. Above-ground shoots with flowers; C. Top view of mitre showing irregular papillose surface; D. Side view of flower showing outer lobe; E. Longitudinal section of floral tube showing inner surface, three stamens, stylar column and styles; F. Epidermal cells of transversal bar; G. Stamens outer view. H. Stylar column and styles.

Photographed by N. Taosiri (B, C, E, G, H) and C. Chuchuea (A, D, F).

Locality and habitats of Thismia daemona Seelanan & Chantanaorr.
A. Distribution map; B–D. Habitats; arrowheads indicate plants of T. daemona; E. Plants in natural habitat. Photographed by C. Chuchuea (B–D) and N. Taosiri (E).

Thismia daemona Seelanan & Chantanaorr., sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Thismia daemona is somewhat similar morphologically to T. limkokthayi, but differs in having reddish orange and fleshy outer tepals, outer surface of mitre covered with irregular papillae, inner surface of floral tube possessing irregular transverse bars in lower half and finely reticulations in upper half, epidermis of transverse bars and reticulations covered with translucent white trichomes, translucent blue stamens, and absence of mitre foveae.

Habitat and ecology. Thismia daemona was found growing amongst leaf litter, under shade of lower montane forest with small bamboo, at elevations 950–970 m.

 Tosak Seelanan, Isareyakorn Chantapram, Neeranuch Taosiri, Chanachon Chuchuea and Sahut Chantanaorrapint. 2026. Thismia daemona (Thismiaceae), A New Species from Thailand supported by morphological and molecular evidence. PhytoKeys. 278: 177-189. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.202868 [17-08-2026]

[Crustacea • 2026] Cambarus emegi • A New Stream-dwelling Species of Cambarus (Decapoda: Cambaridae) from Virginia and Pennsylvania (USA) with Notes on its Distribution, Ecology, and Conservation Status

 

Cambarus emegi 

Lieb, Williams, Foltz & Loughman, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5857.2.5 

  facebook.com/WLUCrayfish

Abstract

A new species of crayfish, Cambarus emegi sp. nov., is described from the upper James and Roanoke River basins in Virginia and the lower Delaware River basin in Pennsylvania, where it occurs in streams and small rivers. The species was formerly part of the Cambarus acuminatus species complex (Cambarus species C complex), a long-standing taxonomic enigma that is widely distributed across the Atlantic slope drainages of eastern North America. Cambarus emegi sp. nov. can be distinguished from Cambarus acuminatus due to the absence of a well-defined subpalmar tubercle, greater number of punctations across its areola, and differences in the mesial process of the form I male gonopod. Coloration and pattern in life differ between the two species. Additionally, the distributions of C. emegi sp. nov. and C. acuminatus are separated by hundreds of kilometers. The ranges of two other undescribed members of the Cambarus species C complex border that of C. emegi sp. nov. in Virginia. These species do not appear to overlap geographically; C. emegi sp. nov. is confined to the Ridge and Valley physiographic province, whereas the two undescribed species are found in the Blue Ridge and northern inner Piedmont regions. Cambarus emegi sp. nov. is morphologically similar but visually and genetically different from the undescribed species directly to the south in the upper Roanoke River system. Cambarus emegi sp. nov. is both visually and morphologically similar but genetically distinct from the undescribed species immediately downstream in the James River basin. Cambarus emegi sp. nov. is threatened by several potentially interacting factors including invasive crayfishes, narrow range, and urban and agricultural development. Alarmingly, the species is being rapidly replaced by invasive Faxonius species across a substantial part of its range. This paper represents an important step in providing the information needed to conserve and manage Cambarus emegi sp. nov.

Crustacea, Cambarus species C., Cambarus acuminatus, new species, Ridge and Valley, Northern Piedmont, Delaware, James, Roanoke, invasive crayfish

 Cambarus emegi sp. nov., color in life: (a) holotype, NCSM 95987; (b) allotype, NCSM 95988.

Life color and color pattern of adult  Cambarus emegi sp. nov.:
 (a) dorsal view; (b) oblique lateral view (photo credit Zackary A. Graham).

 Life color and color pattern of juvenile  Cambarus emegi sp. nov. 

Cambarus emegi sp. nov. 

Diagnosis.—Body and eyes pigmented. Rostrum weakly to moderately excavated and ventrally deflected anteriorly; rostral margins subparallel, pronounced and entire through acumen, and more thickened posteriorly than anteriorly; acumen acuminate with prominent dorsally deflected spiniform tubercle at terminus. Areola 2.2–3.6 (¯x=2.7, n=42, s=0.4) times as long as wide, with 6–10 (¯x=8.5, n=42, s= 0.7) punctations across narrowest point. Lateral portion of branchiostegal region of carapace heavily punctate; hepatic regions also punctate with welldeveloped tubercles. Strong cervical spines present; branchiostegal spine prominent; postorbital ridge terminating anteriorly in spiniform tubercle or spine. Weak to acute suborbital angle typically present, rarely absent; suborbital angle terminating anteriorly in spiniform tubercle or spine. Antennal basipodite spines prominent; ischiopodite spines present but not prominent.

Etymology.—Derived from the Turkish work “emeği” meaning “labor of” or “hard work of”, which seems appropriate given this project required many years and the collection of thousands of specimens from South Carolina to Pennsylvania. Additionally, the name honors Emily (Em) and Megan (Meg) Lieb, the senior author’s two daughters, who happily accompanied him on many crayfish sampling trips as children and later helped him collect C. emegi sp. nov. from sites in its Pennsylvania range. 

Common name.—We propose Enigma Crayfish as the common name.

David A. LIEB, Bronwyn W. WILLIAMS, David A. FOLTZ II and Zachary J. LOUGHMAN. 2026. Description of A New Stream-dwelling Species of Cambarus (Decapoda: Cambaridae) from Virginia and Pennsylvania (USA) with Notes on its Distribution, Ecology, and Conservation Status.  Zootaxa. 5857(2); 299-316. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5857.2.5 [2026-07-29]

 facebook.com/WLUCrayfish/posts/1731022025695189 

[Herpetology • 2026] Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis • A New Species of Leptobrachella (Anura: Megophryidae) from Jinzhongshan National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China

Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis

Chen, Su, Yang & Pan, 2026

金钟山掌突蟾 | DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.195575 

Abstract

Integrative morphological and molecular evidence supports the recognition of Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis sp. nov. from Longlin County, Guangxi, China. The new species is distinguished by a combination of characters, including medium body size (snout-vent length 30.4–32.5 mm in males and 40.3–42.8 mm in females), narrow lateral fringes on the toes, absence of toe webbing, continuous dermal ridges beneath the toes, heels that do not meet when the thighs are held at right angles to the body axis, irregular black flank spots, a bicoloured iris and interwoven creamy-white and light-grey markings on the venter. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequences recovered the Jinzhongshan specimens as a strongly supported lineage sister to L. dorsospina, from which they differed by an uncorrected p-distance of 1.4%. Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis sp. nov. is currently known only from montane evergreen broadleaf forest at 1,700–1,800 m elevation. Within the Reserve, L. ventripunctata was recorded along streams below 1,000 m, indicating ecological and elevational separation between the two species.

Key Words: Integrative taxonomy, leaf-litter frog, morphology, phylogeny

Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis sp. nov. 
 A–F. Holotype (NNU 001478): A. Dorsal view; B. Ventral view; C, D. Dorsolateral views; E. Ventral view of hand; F. Ventral view of foot.
G, H. Paratype NNU 001479: G. Dorsal view; H. Ventral view.

photographs by Wei-Cai Chen.

Variation in Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis sp. nov.
 A1, A2. NNU 001323; B1, B2. NNU 001324;
C1, C2. NNU 001480; D1, D2. NNU 001481;
E1, E2. NNU 001482; F1, F2. NNU 001483;
G1, G2 NNU 001484; H1, H2 NNU 001485.

photographs by Wei-Cai Chen.

Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet jinzhongshanensis refers to the type locality, Mt Jinzhongshan. We propose “Jinzhongshan Leaf-litter Frog” as the English common name and Jīn Zhōng Shān Zhǎng Tū Chán (金钟山掌突蟾) as the Chinese common name.

Diagnosis. Leptobrachella jinzhongshanensis sp. nov. is distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) medium body size (SVL 30.4–32.5 mm in males and 40.3–42.8 mm in females); (2) narrow lateral fringes on the toes; (3) absence of toe webbing; (4) continuous dermal ridges beneath the toes; (5) relative finger lengths IV < II ≈ I < III; (6) tibiotarsal articulation reaching the posterior corner of the eye; (7) heels not meeting when the thighs are held at right angles to the body axis; (8) irregular black spots on the flanks; (9) iris copper above and silver below; and (10) interwoven creamy-white and light-grey markings on the venter.

 Wei-Cai Chen, Tong-Ping Su, Hai-Ju Yang and Mei-Ye Pan. 2026. A New Species of Leptobrachella (Anura, Megophryidae) from Jinzhongshan National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(4): 1089-1105. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.195575  [27 Aug 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Pseuderanthemum multiflorum (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Thailand

 

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote,

in Choopan et Grote, 2026.

เข็มฉัตร  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.12

Abstract

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum (Acanthaceae), a new species known only from Thailand, is here described and illustrated. It is distinguished from P. graciliflorum by inner corolla tube and pistil being glabrous instead of puberulous and by calyx lobes 4.5–6 mm long instead of 3–4 mm long. Comparison of morphological characteristics are provided.

Keywords: conservation status, flora, morphology, taxonomy 

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote:
A. habit; B. flower; C. pistil and stamens; D. fruits; E. seeds.

(Drawn by Sunitsorn Pimpasalee).

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote:
A.-C. flowers; D. puberulous calyx and glabrous pistil; E. dried fruit and seeds; F. seeds; G. lower surface of leaf; H. & J. inflorescences; I. infructescence.

 (Photographed by Thiamhathai Choopan).

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote, sp. nov.  

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum is distinguished from P. graciliflorum by the inner corolla tube and pistil being glabrous instead of puberulous, by calyx lobes 4.5–6 mm long instead of 3–4 mm, and by capsule 3–3.5 cm long instead of 2–2.5 cm.

Thiamhathai Choopan and Paul Grote. 2026. Pseuderanthemum multiflorum (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Thailand. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany). 54(2); 122-127. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.12 [17 August 2026]
เข็มฉัตร พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก จากเขาสอยดาว จ.จันทบุรี