Sunday, July 13, 2025

[Funga • 2025] Ophiocordyceps floriformis, O. muscae, ... • Multi-locus Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis reveals Four New Species and A New Record of Ophiocordyceps (Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae) on dipteran hosts in Thailand


 Ophiocordyceps muscae 
 Ophiocordyceps tabani 
 Ophiocordyceps thilosuensis

Mongkolsamrit, Liangsiri, Thanakitpipattana & Luangsa-ard,

in Mongkolsamrit, Thanakitpipattana, Noisripoom, Tasanathai, Liangsiri, Jaiyen, Rungjindamai, Stadler et Luangsa-ard, 2025. 

Abstract
During field surveys conducted in various regions of Thailand, several fungal specimens parasitising flies were discovered. These fungi exhibited morphological characteristics consistent with the broad concept of Ophiocordyceps dipterigena, including yellow to orange-brown cylindrical stromata bearing fertile ascomata at the tip. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, TEF1, and RPB2 sequences revealed that these specimens belong to a well-supported monophyletic clade, referred to as the 'O. dipterigena' complex, which forms a distinct subclade within the hymenostilboid clade. This complex comprises four newly described species with clearly defined host associations: O. floriformis, found on robber flies (Asilidae), particularly on Clephydroneura sp.; O. muscae, isolated from the housefly (Musca domestica); O. tabani, parasitising horse flies (Tabanus sp.); and O. thilosuensis, infecting fruit flies (Anastrepha obliqua) and soldier flies (Sarginae). Additionally, several strains clustered with the previously described O. philippinensis, which was also collected from Clephydroneura sp. This marks the first record of O. philippinensis in Thailand.

Key words: cryptic species, entomogenous fungi, Hymenostilbe, new taxa, phylogenetic analyses


 Ophiocordyceps floriformis Tasanathai, Noisripoom & Luangsa-ard, sp. nov.
 
Etymology. The name refers to the fungus’s outer appearance on the host, which resembles a small flower.



 Ophiocordyceps muscae Mongkolsamrit, Liangsiri, Thanakitpipattana & Luangsa-ard, sp. nov.
 
Etymology. Named after the host genus, Musca domestica.


 Ophiocordyceps tabani Mongkolsamrit, Liangsiri, Thanakitpipattana & Luangsa-ard, sp. nov.
 
Etymology. Named after the host genus, Tabanus.


 Ophiocordyceps thilosuensis Mongkolsamrit, Liangsiri, Thanakitpipattana & Luangsa-ard, sp. nov.
 
Etymology. Refers to the locality where the type specimen was found, Thi Lo Su Waterfall.


 Suchada Mongkolsamrit, Donnaya Thanakitpipattana, Wasana Noisripoom, Kanoksri Tasanathai, Kanraya Liangsiri, Somruetai Jaiyen, Nattawut Rungjindamai, Marc Stadler and Jennifer Luangsa-ard. 2025. Multi-locus Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis reveals Four New Species and A New Record of Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) on dipteran hosts in Thailand. MycoKeys. 119: 235-261. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.119.155439

[Herpetology • 2025] Boulenophrys daxuemontis • A New Species of the Genus Boulenophrys (Anura: Megophryidae) from Southwest China


Boulenophrys daxuemontis Liu, Li, Cheng, Wei, Wang & Cheng,  

in Liu, Li, Y. Cheng, Wei, Wang et G. Cheng, 2025. 
Daxueshan horned toad | 大雪山角蟾  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.13.e153987  

Abstract
Background: The Asian horned toad subfamily Megophryinae (Bonaparte, 1850) currently comprises more than 140 species and is widely distributed in southern China, as well as in Tropical Asia from India and Bhutan to the Philippines. During amphibian surveys conducted at Mt.Daxue Nature Reserve on June 28-30, 2023, we collected specimens of within the genus Boulenophrys. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons, we describe this taxon as a new species from southwestern China.

New information: Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA strongly support the new species as a sister species of B. jiangi. The uncorrected genetic distances between the 16S rRNA and COI genes between the new species and its closest congener were 9.3% and 8.1%, respectively. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) adult males have a moderate body size (SVL 37.1–40.6 mm), differing from B. jiangi in having longer hindlimbs when adpressed anteriorly—the tibiotarsal articulation reaches the mid-level of the eye when extended (vs. only reaching the area between the tympanum and the eye in B. jiangi); (2) vomerine ridge present and vomerine teeth absent; (3) tongue not notched behind; (4) a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; (5) tympanum distinctly visible, rounded; (6) toes lacking lateral fringes and webbing; (7) Distinct relative finger lengths: II < I < V < III in the new species (vs. I < II < V < III in B. jiangi); (8) heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (9) tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level of the middle of the eye when leg is stretched forward; (10) an internal single subgular vocal sac in male; (11) dense nuptial spines on dorsal bases of fingers I and II in breeding adult males;(12) Eye diameter (ED) significantly smaller than that of B. jiangi (ED: 4.00±0.28 in the new species vs. 5.00±0.38 in B. jiangi, P < 0.05).

Keywords: Taxonomy, new species, molecular phylogenetic analysis, morphology

Photos of the adult male holotype CIB JL20230630024 of Boulenophrys daxuemontis sp. nov. in life.
A dorsal view; B ventral view; C dorsal view of hand showing nuptial pads on the first and second fingers (1); D ventral view of hand; E ventral view of foot.
 
Color variation in Boulenophrys daxuemontis sp. nov.
 Dorsal and ventral views of male specimen CIB WX20230630007 (A, B);
dorsal and ventral views of male specimen CIB JL20230630025 (C, D);
dorsal and ventral views of male specimen CIB JL20230630026 (E, F).

Boulenophrys daxuemontis Liu, Li, Cheng, Wei, Wang & Cheng, sp. nov.
 
Etymology: The specific name daxuemontis refers to the distribution of this species, Daxue Mountain. We propose the common name “Daxueshan horned toad” (English) and 大雪山角蟾 (Chinese).

Nomenclature: The specific name daxuemontis refers to the distribution of this species, Daxue Mountain, Sichuan province, China.


 Jing Liu, Shize Li, Yanlin Cheng, Gang Wei, Bin Wang and Gang Cheng. 2025. A New Species of the Genus Boulenophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) from Southwest China. Biodiversity Data Journal. 13: e153987. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.13.e153987  


[Botany • 2025] A Synopsis of the Genus Jacquemontia (Convolvulaceae) in the Indo-Pacific with the Description of One New Species, Jacquemontia mohotaniensis


 Jacquemontia mohotaniensis Staples & Butaud,

in Staples, Butaud et Halford, 2025. 

Abstract 
Examination of specimens from the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, disclosed the presence of an undescribed species of Jacquemontia Choisy from the uninhabited island of Mohotani: the new species Jacquemontia mohotaniensis is described here and its conservation status is proposed as critically endangered. To place this novelty in context, a review of the native and naturalized Indo-Pacific taxa of Jacquemontia is provided; 14 names are accounted for and some taxonomic problems are highlighted for future study. New combinations are made for two Australian species, J. distigma (Benth.) Halford and J. flexuosa (Spreng.) Halford; a second step typification is provided for the latter name to stabilize the nomenclature.

KEYWORDS: biodiversity, Oceania, Marquesas, French Polynesia, Australia

 Jacquemontia mohotaniensis growth habit and plant parts.
(A) Habit showing flowers with fully reflexed corolla lobes and exserted genitalia; (B) flower with erect corolla lobes; (C) fruits, lateral view; (D) fruits, apical view, note 8 valves; (E) seeds in adaxial and abaxial views, note palisade of stiff hairs along margins and ventral keel, scale = 2 mm.
Photos A–D, J.-F. Butaud from living plants in DIREN; 
photo E, G. Staples, voucher: Butaud 4587 (A).

Jacquemontia mohotaniensis Staples & Butaud, sp. nov.

 TYPE: French Polynesia. Society Islands: ...

 DIAGNOSIS: Jacquemontia mohotaniensis resembles most closely J. paniculata but differs from that species in the larger flowers, 1.5–1.8 cm long and up to 1.9 cm in diameter, the corolla subsalverform, 5-lobed, pure white, with exserted stamens and stigmas (Figure 1). The unequal sepals, the outer 2 larger and covering the inner, narrowly ovate-elliptic and 6–8 mm long 2–2.5 mm broad (Figure 2) serve to distinguish this new species from all other known Jacquemontia.


G. Staples, Jean-François Butaud and David A. Halford. 2025. A Synopsis of the Genus Jacquemontia (Convolvulaceae) in the Indo-Pacific with the Description of One New Species. Pacific Science 78 (2), 153-163. DOI: doi.org/10.2984/78.2.3 (6 January 2025) 

Saturday, July 12, 2025

[Botany • 2024] Rhododendron mulyaniae & R. engelbertii (Ericaceae) • Two New Species of Vireya Rhododendron from Tambrauw, Papua, Indonesia


Rhododendron mulyaniae Mambrasar,

in Mambrasar, Elliott et Cameron, 2024. 

Abstract

Two new species of Vireya Rhododendron, Rhododendron mulyaniae sp. nov. and R. engelbertii sp. nov. were discovered in Tambrauw, Papua, Indonesia. Rhododendron mulyaniae resembles R. angiense in that the scales under the leaf are dendroid, but differs in having elliptic to narrowly elliptic leaves, lacking hairs on petiole, having a tubular funnel shaped corolla. Rhododendron engelbertii resembles to R. carstensense in leaf shape but differs by having narrowly tapering leaf base, scales present on the petiole, and a corolla densely scaly on the outside. Detailed descriptions, illustrations and provisional conservation threat status of these newly described species are provided.

Keywords: Gunung Botak, new species, Tambrauw, Vireya Rhododendron
 

Rhododendron mulyaniae Mambrasar sp. nov.  

Rhododendron engelbertii Mambrasar sp. nov.  



Yasper M. Mambrasar, Alan C. Elliott and Kennet M. Cameron. 2024. Two New Species of Vireya Rhododendron (Ericaceae), from Tambrauw, Papua, Indonesia. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/njb.04545 [26 September 2024]  

[Funga • 2025] Lentinus saisamorniae (Polyporales: Polyporaceae) • A New edible macrofungus from northern Thailand


Lentinus saisamorniae  Kumla & N. Suwannar.,

in Kumla, Kaewnunta et Suwannarach, 2025. 
เห็ดขอนขาวสายสมร  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.705.2.2 
 
Abstract
A new edible Lentinus species, described herein as L. saisamorniae, was collected from local markets and natural habitats in northern Thailand between 2019 and 2021. This species is characterized by its small to medium-sized basidiomata, white to yellowish-white pileus, broadly ellipsoid to elongate-shaped basidiospores, dimitic hyphal system, and hyphal pegs. Nonetheless, its longer basidia and smaller basidiospores make it distinguishable from L. cladopus. A molecular phylogenetic analysis of the combined internal transcribed spacer (ITS) large subunit (nrLSU) of nuclear ribosomal DNA, and RNA polymerase II large subunit (rpb1) sequences supported the monophyly of L. saisamorniae as a distinct lineage within the genus Lentinus. Therefore, this new species was introduced based on both morphological characteristics and molecular phylogeny. A full description, illustrations, color photographs, and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of L. saisamorniae are provided. Comparisons between the new species and morphologically similar and related species are discussed.

Edible fungus, lentinoid fungus, phylogeny, saprotrophic fungus, taxonomy, tropical area, Fungi




Jaturong KUMLA, Atsadawat KAEWNUNTA and Nakarin SUWANNARACH. 2025. Lentinus saisamorniae (Polyporaceae, Polyporales), A New edible macrofungus from northern Thailand. Phytotaxa. 705(2); 149-161. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.705.2.2 [2025-06-13]


[Botany • 2024] Passiflora pitalensis (Passifloraceae) • A New Species of Passiflora Subgenus Passiflora in the Flora of Colombia discovered in uncharted Andean territory


Passiflora pitalensis  Arrigui-Torres, J.Ocampo & Rosero-Toro, 

in Arrigui-TorresOcampo et Rosero-Toro, 2024.

Abstract
A new species of Passiflora belonging to the subgenus Passiflora (supersection Stipulata, section Kermesinae) is described and illustrated from living material and herbarium specimens. Passiflora pitalensis is similar to P. lehmannii, and it can be recognized primarily by its petiole green, leaves with broader lobes, peduncle green, bract lanceolate, corona filaments in 5 series with outer filaments in 2 series, fruit ovoid, and seed margin dentate. This species is rare and endemic to Colombia in the Andean region at elevations ranging from 1,749–2,027 m and should be considered Endangered (EN) due to its restricted occurrence with a small population size of no more than 90 individuals.

 Eudicots, Andes, Endemic species, Huila, Macizo Colombiano, new taxon, passionflower  

 Passiflora pitalensis.
Lankester composite dissection plant style sheet from holotype (E. Arrigui-Torres, J. Ocampo & J.H. Rosero-Toro 221; SURCO!).
A mature plant of Passiflora pitalensis. A. Lateral view of the flower. B. Alternate view of the flower. C. Flower bud. D. Front view of the flower. E. Cross section of the flower. F. View of the leaf with stipule. G. Detail of marginal petiolar stipitate glands. H. Abaxial surface of the leaf. I. Detail of ocelli on the abaxial surface of the leaf. J. Ripe fruit. K. Cross section of mature fruit. L. Detail of dry seed.  
Photographs by Edwin Arrigui-Torres.


 Passiflora pitalensis Arrigui-Torres, J.Ocampo & Rosero-Toro

Etymology:—The specific epithet is in honor of the municipality El Pital where the new species was observed for the first time. El Pital is located in the southwest of the department of Huila, on the upper valley plain of the Magdalena River in the foothills of the central mountain range of Colombia (Cordillera Central) in the region known as Macizo Colombiano.



Edwin ARRIGUI-TORRES, John A. OCAMPO and Jeison Herley ROSERO-TORO. 2024. A New Species of Passiflora (Passifloraceae, subgenus Passiflora) in the Flora of Colombia discovered in uncharted Andean territory. Phytotaxa. 642(2); 156-168. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.642.2.4  [2024-03-28]
https://x.com/Edwin_Arrigui/status/1773326825990570196
Researchgate.net/publication/379504612_A_new_species_of_Passiflora_in_the_Flora_of_Colombia
https://www.behance.net/gallery/194995083/Passiflora-pitalensis

[Botany • 2025] Crawfurdia minuticalyx (Gentianaceae) • A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India


Crawfurdia minuticalyx R.Maity, Debta & S.S.Dash,

in Maity, Debta et Dash, 2025. 

Abstract
Crawfurdia minuticalyx, a new species of Crawfurdia (Gentianaceae) is described here from Arunachal Pradesh, situated in Eastern part of Indian Himalayan Region (IHR). This new species is unique in its very small calyx from its allied taxa. Morphologically, it shows close affinity towards C. speciosa Wall.; however, it can be differentiated by its much smaller leaves with entire margin; minute, non-splitted, calyx; relatively shorter corolla; stamens inserted below the middle of the corolla-tube, oblong anthers; short gynophore, and very short style. A detailed description and illustration are provided here along with comparative table of morphological characters, for easy identification.

Keyword: Arunachal Pradesh, Crawfurdia minuticalyx, Crawfurdia speciosa, Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), novel species

 Illustration of Crawfurdia minuticalyx R.Maity, Debta & S.S.Dash.
 A. portion of twig, B. calyx, C. corolla (split open), D. stamen, E. gynoecium, F. fruit.
Scale bar: A = 1 cm; B = 1.5 mm; C = 1 cm; D = 2 mm; E = 5 mm; F = 1 cm. 
(Drawn by R.Maity from M. R. Debta 44017)


Field photograph of Crawfurdia minuticalyx R.Maity, Debta & S.S.Dash.
A. Habit, B. Flowers. C. Distribution map.
A, photographed by Manas Ranjan Debta; B photographed by Bipankar Hajong

Crawfurdia minuticalyx R.Maity, Debta & S.S.Dash, sp.nov. 

Diagnosis: Crawfurdia minuticalyx show close morphological affinity to C. speciosa Wall., but it can be differentiated by its much smaller habit; leaves with entire margin, and slightly flattened, 0.3–0.5 cm long petiole (vs crenulate leaf margin, and terete, 0.5–0.7 cm long petiole,); single bracteate flower (vs 2-bracteate flowers); 0.4–1.0 cm long pedicels (vs 1.0–6.0 cm long pedicels); 1–2 mm long, linear to narrow lanceolate bracts (vs 7–10 mm long, lanceolate bract); 0.2–0.5 cm long, ridged, campanulate, non-splitted calyx with 0.1–0.2 cm long, ovate to narrow ovate or lanceolate lobes (1.0–1.2 cm long, smooth, tubular calyx with split on one side, with 0.2–0.3 cm long, triangular lobes); 2.0–2.5 cm long, ...

Etymology: The specific epithet “minuticalyx” denotes very small or minute size of calyx which has been observed in the specimen during study and makes this species unique from other allied taxa


Rohan Maity, Manas Ranjan Debta and Sudhansu Sekhar Dash. 2025. A New Species of Crawfurdia (Gentianaceae) from India. Taiwania. 70(3); 445-448. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2025.70.445 [07 July 2025]  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2093

[Botany • 2025] Dracula colombiana (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae) • A New orchid Species with a history of misidentification in trade and collections


Dracula colombiana Baquero, Est.Domínguez & E.Parra, 

in Baquero, Vargas, Mesa et Parra-Sanchez, 2025. 
 
Abstract
We describe and illustrate Dracula colombiana sp. nov. a new orchid species from the eastern Andes of Colombia, previously misidentified as D. benedictii in herbaria, private collections, and commercial trade. The new species resembles D. benedictii but can be distinguished by its solid pink lip with an ovate, glabrous epichile longer than the hypochile (vs. white, suborbicular epichile shorter than the hypochile) and sepals with brown-red papillae and pubescence (vs. purple black, verrucose sepals). Based on IUCN Red List criteria, we propose that the species be classified as Endangered (EN) under sub-criterion B2a, due to its restricted geographic distribution and the threats posed by potentially unsustainable harvesting. Conservation measures are urgently needed to protect natural populations, regulate its presence in the orchid trade, and address taxonomic misidentifications in global markets.

Endemism, epichilus, orchid trade, Western Colombian Andes, Monocots

Dracula colombiana Baquero, Est.Domínguez & E.Parra.
 A. Lateral view of column and lip in open and closed positions. B. ¾ view of the flower. C. Dissected perianth. D. Adaxial view of a petal and column in different positions. E. Habit. F. Lip in different positions.  
 Figure by Esteban Dominguez Vargas 
from type specimen (EDV-2635, HUA).

Dracula colombiana Baquero, Est.Domínguez & E.Parra, sp. nov.


Luis E. BAQUERO R., Esteban Dominguez VARGAS, Santiago MESA and Edicson PARRA-SANCHEZ. 2025. Dracula colombiana (Pleurothallidinae: Orchidaceae), A New orchid Species with a history of misidentification in trade and collections.  Phytotaxa. 706(1); 81-90. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.706.1.6 [2025-06-19]

Friday, July 11, 2025

[Entomology • 2025] Nesocordulia coloratissima, N. evanida, N. fossa, ... • Six New Species of Nesocordulia McLachlan, 1882 (Odonata: Anisoptera: Libelluloidea) reveal an Insular Evolutionary Radiation of Dragonflies on Madagascar

 
Nesocordulia coloratissima sp. nov.
(a, c-g) male; (b) female . 
Bernard, Daraż, Ravelomanana & Dijkstra, 2025

Flame-tipped Knifetail  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5660.2.1  
Photos by: a–b, Allan Brandon; c–g, Bogusław Daraż.
 
Abstract
Nesocordulia McLachlan, 1882 is a poorly known dragonfly genus endemic to Madagascar and the Comoros. The genus is revised, and all twelve species are described, including six new ones: N. coloratissima sp. nov., N. evanida sp. nov., N. fossa sp. nov., N. ipsio sp. nov., N. lyricauda sp. nov., and N. odonator sp. nov. All are well-defined, with notably distinct male cerci, hamules, and colouration. While an identification key for males of all species is provided, this is based on single specimens for six of them. Females are known for only six species. While several radiations of damselfly genera had been recognised in the Malagasy Region already, Nesocordulia is the first to be uncovered in the suborder Anisoptera. Due to the scarcity of data, the exact drivers of their diversification remain unclear, however. While seven species are known from the humid and subhumid forest zone of eastern and north-western Madagascar, and only N. coloratissima and N. villiersi Legrand, 1984 appear confined to the drier west and to the Comoros respectively, the exact collection localities of three species remain unknown. Although the limited data suggest that most species are localised, the few species with more records appear to be fairly widespread. The species’ ecology is almost unknown, with more details provided on the habitat and behaviour of N. evanida only, and their conservation status is also largely unknown. Four species have not been recorded for over a century, however, while only N. coloratissima and N. evanida were confirmed to inhabit anthropogenically influenced landscapes.

Odonata, Corduliidae s.l., systematics, species description, taxonomic synopsis, biogeography, endemic species, Malagasy Region, Comoros
 
Nesocordulia coloratissima sp. nov.
(a) male habitus in lateral view; (b) female habitus in dorsal view; (c) male s6–8 in dorsal view; (d) male abdomen in ventral view; (e) male head in frontal view (f) male head in ventral view; (g) male terminalia in lateral view.
Photos by: a–b, Allan Brandon; c–g, Bogusław Daraż.

Nesocordulia coloratissima Bernard, Daraż, Ravelomanana & Dijkstra sp. nov.
—Flame-tipped Knifetail 

Etymology. a declinable feminine latin adjective, formed from colorata- plus superlative suffix -issima, “the most colourful”. this is the most variegated species, with a striking spectrum of black, rusty brown, yellow, and white, as well as metallic with green, blue, golden, bronze, and violet reflections.

Diagnosis. This rather small Nesocordulia species is the most colourful and extensively yellow-marked in the genus. the black abdomen marked with yellow up to the base of d7, while the remainder is uniformly rufous, is unique, as are the yellow occipital triangle, yellow frons sides, broadly yellow centre of labrum, and the especially large yellow spot on the mesepimeron and metepisternum (sometimes narrowly divided into two large triangular spots but more frequently fused). the hamule and cerci are also unique (see figs 15–16 and 17–18, respectively), although the former is similar to that of N. evanida.


Nesocordulia evanida sp. nov.
(a) male habitus in lateral view; (b) female habitus in lateral view; (c) male head and thorax in dorsal view; (d) male secondary genitalia in lateral view; (e) male habitus in ventral view; (f) male abdomen in dorsal view; (g) male head in frontal view; (h) male terminalia in lateral view.
Photos by Bogusław Daraż.

Nesocordulia evanida Bernard, Daraż & Dijkstra sp. nov.
—Little Knifetail  
Etymology. a declinable feminine latin adjective meaning “vanishing from sight”, as males are almost impossible to follow for the observer’s eyes due to the combination of their behaviour, disruptive camouflage, and the dappled light in their microhabitat.

Diagnosis. The smallest Nesocordulia species, separated from its probable closest relatives (N. coloratissima and N. malgassica) by the black rather than rufous s7–10 and its slightly, but distinctively distended cerci with black hair-like setae. differs from other black-tailed species by the shape of the cerci and hamule, as well as the thoracic markings with two triangular and three roundish yellow spots on each side.

Nesocordulia fossa sp. nov., male.
 (a) habitus in lateral view; (b) head in ventral view and thorax and s1–2 in lateral view; (c) terminalia in dorsal view; (d) abdomen in ventral view; (e) head in frontal view; (f) left Hw.
Photos by: a, Dave Smallshire; b–f, Bogusław Daraż.

Nesocordulia fossa Bernard, Daraż, Ravelomanana & Dijkstra sp. nov.
—Fossa Knifetail 

Etymology. the name, a noun in apposition, refers to madagascar’s largest carnivore, the similarly rufous, long-bodied and enigmatic Fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox Bennett, 1835).

Diagnosis. Comparatively large species, easily separated from all congeners except N. rubricauda by the reddish brown  body,  dark  brown  wing  bases,  and  denser  venation,  especially  between  the  cubital  and  anal veins. Aside from unique features, such as the shape of the cerci and hamule (see figs 15–16 and 17–18, respectively), yellow markings on the largely reddish brown thorax, and black apical smudges laterally on the reddish brown s3–6, differs from N. rubricauda by the yellow marking on the clypeus and the single cell rows subtended by Rspl.


Nesocordulia ipsio Bernard, Daraż & Dijkstra sp. nov.
—Dark Knifetail 
  Etymology. the name, a noun in apposition, refers to the CEPF project Insects and People in the Southern Indian Ocean (IPSIO), initiated by Brian fisher at the madagascar Biodiversity Center. K.-D.B. Dijkstra participated in the IPSIO expedition to marojejy national Park, but all specimens were collected by alan gardiner while he was seeking for butterflies.

Diagnosis. Medium-sized Nesocordulia species with a uniquely shaped hamule (see fig. 15) and the most extensive and contrasting dark markings on the labium and cerci in the genus. Only the presumably closely related N. odonator is similarly dark, sharing the limited thoracic pattern of small yellow spots, divided yellow lateroventral marking on S2, the laterally long but dorsally interrupted yellowish basal ring on S7, and dark epiproct. Nesocordulia ipsio differs from it, however, by a different hamule (see figs 15 and 16) and mostly blackish brown lateral lobes of labium, and is also significantly smaller.


Nesocordulia lyricauda Bernard, Daraż & Dijkstra sp. nov.
—Lyre-tipped Knifetail  

Etymology. a feminine noun derived from latin “cauda”, a tail, and “lyra”, an u-shaped instrument with two curvy branches, to describe the distinctive lyre-shaped cerci in dorsal view.

Diagnosis. the largest Nesocordulia species, separated by its unique long lyre-shaped cerci, large and uniquely shaped hamule (see fig. 15), and the basal yellow spots uniquely extending both dorsally and laterally on s7.  also has more Px in Fw (11–13 vs. 7–10) and Hw (13–14 vs. 7–11) than other black species.


Nesocordulia odonator Bernard, Daraż, Ravelomanana & Dijkstra sp. nov.
—Crabshear Knifetail  

Etymology. the name, a noun in apposition, like those for Syncordulia legator dijkstra et al., 2007, Syncordulia serendipator Dijkstra et al., 2007, and Syncordulia venator (Barnard, 1933), honours the explorers of odonata. this species and N. fossa were found on the same day of odonatours’ inaugural trip, whose participants sponsored the first introduction to malagasy odonata (dijkstra & Cohen 2021).

Diagnosis. Fairly large Nesocordulia species with unique hamule, in lateral view recalling a crab’s pincer (chelate appendage) with an almost spike-like dactyl, and unique labium with brown median lobe and mostly yellow lateral lobes. Only N. ipsio is similarly dark, sharing the limited thoracic yellow pattern of small spots, divided yellow lateroventral marking on S2, laterally long but discontinuous yellow ring on S7, and dark epiproct. N. ipsio has an even darker labium and cerci, however, and is also significantly smaller.

 
Rafał BERNARD, Bogusław DARAŻ, Andrianjaka RAVELOMANANA and Klaas-Douwe B. DIJKSTRA. 2025. Six New Species of Nesocordulia McLachlan, 1882 reveal an insular Evolutionary Radiation of Dragonflies on Madagascar (Odonata: Anisoptera: Libelluloidea).  Zootaxa. 5660(2); 151-193. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5660.2.1 [2025-07-09]
 

Thursday, July 10, 2025

[Ichthyology • 2025] Magdalenichthys lundbergi, M. poira, ... • An unexpectedly diverse New Genus of Catfishes (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) endemic to the Magdalena River Basin, Colombia


Magdalenichthys DoNascimiento, Conde-Saldaña, Albornoz-Garzón & Villa-Navarro gen. nov.

Magdalenichthys lundbergi 
DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro, Ortega-Lara, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña,
M. mompox DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña,
M. poira Villa-Navarro, DoNascimiento, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña,
M. yariguies DoNascimiento, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López, Villa-Navarro & Conde-Saldaña 

in DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro, Albornoz-Garzón, Conde-Saldaña, Silva, Méndez-López, Roxo, Ortega-Lara et Oliveira, 2025. 

Abstract
A new genus of heptapterid catfish, Magdalenichthys gen. nov., largely ignored for the past two decades is herein described. Comprehensive examination of specimens in Colombian ichthyological collections and additional samplings in the Magdalena basin were the base for an integral analysis using morphological characters, DNA barcode delimitation, and molecular phylogenetic analyses to assess monophyly and relationships of the new genus, and to delimit and diagnose four new species, Magdalenichthys lundbergi sp. nov., Magdalenichthys mompox sp. nov., Magdalenichthys poira sp. nov., and Magdalenichthys yariguies sp. nov., endemic to the Magdalena basin. The new genus is phylogenetically diagnosed. Maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and coalescent-based analyses with ultraconserved elements (UCEs) data, place the new genus as sister to Phenacorhamdia, within a clade also containing Cetopsorhamdia and Pariolius, consistent with the finding of two apomorphic characters shared by the new genus and Phenacorhamdia. The biogeographic pattern of the new genus (restricted to the Magdalena basin) is also discussed.

Andes, DNA barcode, freshwater fishes, iterative taxonomy, phylogenomics, South America, species delimitation, systematics, trans-Andean, ultraconserved elements


Magdalenichthys DoNascimiento, Conde-Saldaña, Albornoz-Garzón & Villa-Navarro gen. nov.
 
Type species: Magdalenichthys lundbergi DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro, Ortega-Lara, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña sp. nov.

Diagnosis: A member of the tribe Heptapterini as defined by Silva et al. (2021). Magdalenichthys is distinguished from all other heptapterids by a single autapomorphy: posterolateral corner of lateral ethmoid with pointed posterior process, extending parallel and adjacent to the lateral margin of neurocranium, contacting the lateral margin of frontal, at level of anterior region of orbitosphenoid (vs. posterolateral region of lateral ethmoid devoid of any process, ending at posterior articulation with orbitosphenoid) (Fig. 1). Additionally, Magdalenichthys can be recognized from all members of Heptapterini (except Phenacorhamdia Dahl, 1961) by having a prognathous mouth (vs. terminal, subterminal, or ventral). Magdalenichthys differs from Phenacorhamdia by having an upper caudal-fin lobe longer than the lower lobe (vs. lower caudal-fin lobe longer) and hemal spines of vertebrae dorsal to insertion of anal fin simple (vs. bifid). Another character useful for its recognition among Heptapterini species from the Magdalena basin (except Imparfinis timana Ortega-Lara, Milani, DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro & Maldonado-Ocampo, 2011) is the adipose-fin shape roughly rectangular [vs. rounded in Cetopsorhamdia boquillae Eigenmann, 1922 or triangular in Cetopsorhamdia molinae Miles, 1943, Cetopsorhamdia nasus, Imparfinis nemacheir (Eigenmann & Fisher, 1916), and Imparfinis usmai Ortega-Lara, Milani, DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro & Maldonado-Ocampo, 2011], being further and easily recognized from I. timana by its shorter maxillary barbel, never surpassing the distal edge of the pectoral fin (vs. extending at least to the pelvic-fin base), and pelvic-fin origin at vertical though dorsal-fin origin or slightly posterior (vs. inserted at or slightly posterior to middle of dorsal-fin base).

Included species: Magdalenichthys lundbergi sp. nov., Magdalenichthys mompox sp. nov., Magdalenichthys poira sp. nov., Magdalenichthys yariguies sp. nov.

Etymology: In allusion to the Magdalena River basin, remarking on the restricted geographic distribution of this heptapterid genus to the Cauca and Magdalena rivers, which together form the main hydrographic basin of the trans-Andean region of Colombia, framed by the Western, Central, and Eastern cordilleras, the most salient feature of the Colombian geomorphology. Gender masculine.


Magdalenichthys lundbergi DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro, Ortega-Lara, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña sp. nov.

Etymology: The species name is dedicated to John G. Lundberg, in recognition of its seminal contributions to the systematics of pimelodoid and heptapterid catfishes, and for being an inspiring milestone in the first author’s career.

Magdalenichthys mompox DoNascimiento, Villa-Navarro, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña sp. nov.

Etymology: The species name refers to the Cacique Mompoj of the Malibú tribe that once inhabited the region today corresponding to the municipality of Santa Cruz de Mompox, within the so-called Momposina Depression. This indigenous group was exterminated by the Spanish armies of Gerónimo Lebrón and Alonso Martín, during the Cesar massacre of 1540. Used as a noun in apposition.


Magdalenichthys poira Villa-Navarro, DoNascimiento, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López & Conde-Saldaña sp. nov.

Etymology: The name poira is the most important indigenous mythological figure of the Tolima department and refers to the mischievous and libertine Mohán, who is a human-like being (when it appears in the form of a child or adolescent), with a face tanned by the sun, and penetrating and rougish eyes. The poira enchants and attracts young women, who often go to wash clothes on the banks of the river. Used as a noun in apposition.

Magdalenichthys yariguies DoNascimiento, Albornoz-Garzón, Méndez-López, Villa-Navarro & Conde-Saldaña sp. nov.

Etymology: The name yariguies honours the exterminated indigenous group that inhabited the río Cascajales drainage. Used as a noun in apposition.

 
Carlos DoNascimiento, Francisco Antonio Villa-Navarro, Juan G Albornoz-Garzón, Cristhian C Conde-Saldaña, Gabriel S C Silva, Alejandro Méndez-López, Fábio F Roxo, Armando Ortega-Lara and Claudio Oliveira. 2025. An unexpectedly diverse New Genus of Catfishes (Siluriformes, Heptapteridae) endemic to the Magdalena River Basin, Colombia. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. 204(3); zlaf048. DOI: doi.org/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlaf048 [08 July 2025]

[Ichthyology • 2025] Eviota vader • A New western Pacific Dwarfgoby (Gobiiformes: Gobiidae) from Papua New Guinea

 

Eviota vader
 Greenfield, Erdmann & Ichida, 2025


Abstract 
A new species of dwarfgoby, Eviota vader, is described from McLaren Fjord, Tufi, Papua New Guinea. The new species is characterized by a distinctive purplish-black coloration not found on any other species of dwarfgoby. In addition to the unusual color, it is diagnosed by the combination of a complete cephalic sensory-canal pore system, a dorsal/anal fin-formula of 8/7, some branched pectoral-fin rays, the fifth pelvic-fin ray present, and no dark occipital spots or any dark spots at the base of dorsal or caudal fins. The species is apparently endemic to the Tufi region of Papua New Guinea, a location known to have microendemic species. 

Key words: taxonomy, ichthyology, coral-reef fishes, gobies, new species, microendemic, Tufi, black dwarfgoby 


Eviota vader, holotype, CAS 249349, 11.5 mm SL, male,
Tufi, Papua New Guinea
anesthetized and underwater, (photo reversed) (M.V. Erdmann).
preserved holotype, (D.W. Greenfield).

Eviota vader, n. sp. 
Black Dwarfgoby  

Diagnosis. A species of Eviota distinguished from all congeners by a combination of a complete cephalic sensory-canal pore system (pattern 1), a dorsal/anal fin-ray formula 8/7, some pectoral-fin rays branched, fifth pelvic-fin ray present, no dark occipital spots or any dark spots at the base of dorsal or caudal fins, and a broad and fringed male urogenital papilla. Entire body and fins purplish black.

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from the fictional dark figure Darth Vader in the Star Wars movie franchise (Fig. 3), referring to the fact that it is the darkest of all described dwarfgobies. It is treated as a noun in apposition.
 

David W. Greenfield, Mark V. Erdmann and Nesha K. Ichida. 2025. Eviota vader, A New western Pacific Dwarfgoby from Papua New Guinea (Teleostei: Gobiidae). Journal of the Ocean Science Foundation. 43, 39–44. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15786577https://oceansciencefoundation.org/josf43c.html