[Herpetology • 2024] Raorchestes asakgrensis • Rediscovery and Redescription of Ixalus garo and Ixalus kempiae Boulenger, 1919 (Anura: Rhacophoridae), and the Description of A New species from the Garo Hills of Meghalaya

 

Raorchestes asakgrensis Naveen, Chandramouli & Babu, 

in Naveen, Chandramouli, Babu, Ryndongsngi, Karunakaran et Kumara, 2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.37.e122825

Abstract

Bush frogs from Garo and Khasi Hills were collected, and a thorough examination based on morphology and geographic distribution revealed that two of the populations sampled from Garo Hills during this study agree with the holotypes and descriptions of the taxa Ixalus garo and I. kempiae, described more than a century ago. The original description lacked information on several morphological characters, genetic material, and photographs of the species in life. The absence of such information posed challenges in field identification of these species. Our phylogeny shows them to be nested within the Raorchestes clade, and therefore, we allocate these two species to this genus and formally announce their rediscovery. We also redescribe these two species here based on additional adult vouchers and report geographic range extensions from new localities. Based on molecular and morphological analysis, we reassess the status of the recently described Raorchestes cangyuanensis, resulting in its placement under the subjective junior synonymy of R. kempiae. We also describe a morphologically distinct new species from this region. This paper bridges an important gap in the knowledge of the genus Raorchestes in this part of India and highlights the importance of systematic surveys in documenting and understanding amphibian diversity in the region.

Key Words: cryptic diversity, Indo-Burma hotspot, IUCN red list, Rhacophoridae, synonymy, systematics

Raorchestes asakgrensis sp. nov.
holotype, SACON VA 805, an adult female dorso-lateral view in life (above);
paratype, SACON VA 340, an adult male dorso-lateral view in life (below).

 Raorchestes asakgrensis Naveen, Chandramouli & Babu, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Raorchestes asakgrensis sp. nov. is placed in the genus Raorchestes due to the combination of the following characters: small body size, vomerine teeth absent, single translucent external subgular vocal sac present, and tips of all fingers and toes expanded into discs with circum-marginal grooves (see Biju et al. 2010). The species can be distinguished from congeners in the Indo-China region by the following combination of characters: A small-sized (mean SVL 20.49 mm) arboreal species with an obtusely pointed snout; tympanum fairly visible with a visible supra-tympanic, ...

Etymology: The species is named after the type locality, Eman Asakgre Community Reserve, to honor the residents who greatly supported the surveys during which the type specimens were collected.

 R. S. Naveen, S. R. Chandramouli, S. Babu, A. M. Ryndongsngi, P. V. Karunakaran and Honnavalli N. Kumara. 2024. Rediscovery and Redescription of Ixalus garo Boulenger, 1919, and Ixalus kempiae Boulenger, 1919, with A Reassessment of the Taxonomic Status of Raorchestes cangyuanensis Wu, Suwannapoom, Xu, Murphy & Che, 2019 and the Description of A New species from the Garo Hills of Meghalaya. Herpetozoa. 37: 359-372. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.37.e122825

[Invertebrate • 2024] Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi • A New Species of Erinaceusyllis (Annelida: Syllidae) discovered at A Wood-fall in the eastern Clarion-Clipperton zone, central Pacific Ocean

Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi 

Nilsson, Wiklund, Glover, Bribiesca-Contreras & Dahlgren, 2024  

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr.2024.104415

Highlights: 

• A novel polychaete species was discovered on an abyssal wood-fall.

• Its high abundance on degraded wood displays a tolerance to sulfidic environments.

• Morphology and genetics support placement in Erinaceusyllis of the family Syllidae.

• This constitutes the first finding of abundant syllids on a natural wood-fall.

• Sulfide-tolerant syllids in the East Pacific may originate from the same lineage.

Abstract

In the deep sea, organic falls provide temporary localized enrichments of organic matter to the otherwise nutrient-poor abyssal seafloor. Areas where organic falls land become ephemeral patches of increased biodiversity. Often rich in opportunistic species which are tolerant to the sulfidic environment formed from anaerobic breakdown of organic matter. On a wood-fall at abyssal depths in the eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone, the novel species Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi (Annelida: Syllidae) was discovered in high abundance. This study entails the first description of a novel syllid species found in high density on a naturally occurring organic fall. Phylogenetic position was investigated using three genetic markers (16S, 18S, COI) and morphology was studied through light- and scanning electron microscopy. Genetic data and morphological analysis supported placement in the syllid genus Erinaceusyllis. Distinguishing features were lack of eyes, dorsal brooding of one egg per egg-bearing segment, lack of visible papillae across the body, incomplete fusion of palps, bidentate chaetae, as well as pyriform antennae and tentacular cirri. Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi sp. nov. is highly similar to a species found on hydrothermal vents belonging to the closely related genus Sphaerosyllis. The similarity between the two species, as well as findings of unspecified Sphaerosyllis species in various types of sulfidic habitats evoke questions of a possible syllid lineage adapted to sulfidic environments.

Previous article in issue

 Keywords: Erinaceusyllis, Sphaerosyllis, Wood-falls, Sulfidic habitats, Clarion-Clipperton zone, Abyssal zone

 The piece of wood on which Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi sp. nov. was discovered. In situ image during collection.

Photo: University of Gothenburg.

 Full body light microscopy images of Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi sp. nov. 
 A – Holotype NHM_9029 dorsal view, chaetigers 13–16 on left side removed for DNA extraction. B – NHM_9029 ventral view. C – Paratype NHM_9081A dorsal view. D – Paratype NHM_9070B lateral view, left side. E – NHM9073 dorsal view, 3 posterior chaetigers and pygidium removed for DNA extraction.

 Scale bar: 100 μm. la – lateral antenna; ma – median antenna; tc – tentacular cirrus; dc – dorsal cirrus; ac -anal cirrus; px – pharynx; pr – proventricle.

Systematics

Phylum: Annelida Lamarck, 1802.

Class: Polychaeta Grube, 1850.

Family: Syllidae Grube, 1850.

Genus: Erinaceusyllis San Martín, 2005

Species: Erinaceusyllis simonlledoi sp. nov.

Etymology: The species is named in honor of Dr. Erik Simon Lledo, a member of the group of scientists onboard the Maersk Launcher on the NORI-D 5E biodiversity baseline research expedition of November–December 2021.

Christian L. Nilsson, Helena Wiklund, Adrian G. Glover, Guadalupe Bribiesca-Contreras and Thomas G. Dahlgren. 2024. A New Species of Erinaceusyllis (Annelida: Syllidae) discovered at A Wood-fall in the eastern Clarion-Clipperton zone, central Pacific ocean. Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers. 214, 104415. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr.2024.104415

 

[Entomology • 2024] Cyphonia dayuma & C. kellyswingi • New Species and Records of the Treehopper Genus Cyphonia (Hemiptera: Membracidae) from the northern Amazonia lowlands of Ecuador

 

Cyphonia dayuma Montalvo-Salazar & Karbaum;  
C. kellyswingi Montalvo-Salazar & Torres, 

in Montalvo-Salazar, Torres Arizaga et Karbaum. 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00379271.2024.2396823  

  facebook.com/JorgeLuisMontalvoSalazar 

  facebook.com/USFQZoologia

Abstract

Summary. We describe two new species of Cyphonia Laporte, 1832 from the Amazonia lowlands of Ecuador: Cyphonia dayuma Montalvo-Salazar & Karbaum n. sp. (♀) and C. kellyswingi Montalvo-Salazar & Torres n. sp. (♀). We also add two new records for Ecuador from an urban forest remnant in the Amazonia: Cyphonia clavigera (Fabricius, 1803) and C. longistyla Sakakibara, 1972. With this contribution, the number of known species of Cyphonia inhabiting Ecuador is elevated to seven. We lastly provide a key to the known Cyphonia species of Ecuador.

Keywords: Ceresini, Smiliinae, Morphology, Taxonomy, Tiputini Biodiversity Station

Jorge L. Montalvo-Salazar, David M. Torres Arizaga and Geronimus L. Karbaum. 2024. New Species and Records of the Treehopper Genus Cyphonia (Hemiptera: Membracidae) from the northern Amazonia lowlands of Ecuador. Annales de la Société entomologique de France (N.S.): International Journal of Entomology. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00379271.2024.2396823  

  facebook.com/JorgeLuisMontalvoSalazar/posts/2754900868025590

  facebook.com/USFQZoologia/posts/1123109709579734

Résumé: Nouvelles espèces et citations du genre Cyphonia (Hemiptera : Membracidae) des basses terres du nord de l'Amazonie, en Équateur. Nous décrivons deux nouvelles espèces de Cyphonia des basses terres de l'Amazonie, en Équateur : Cyphonia dayuma Montalvo-Salazar & Karbaum n. sp. (♀) et C. kellyswingi Montalvo-Salazar & Torres n. sp. (♀). Nous ajoutons également deux nouvelles citations pour l'Équateur, à partir d'un reliquat de forêt amazonienne urbaine : Cyphonia clavigera (Fabricius, 1803) et C. longistyla Sakakibara, 1972. Avec cette contribution, le nombre d'espèces connues de Cyphonia habitant l'Équateur est porté à sept. Nous fournissons enfin une clé d’identification des espèces de Cyphonia connues en Équateur.

[Botany • 2024] Lorostemon roseoviridis (Clusiaceae) • A New Species from the eastern Amazonia

 Lorostemon roseoviridis  Fer.-Silva & L.Marinho,

  

in Ferreira-Silva, Marinho, Mouzinho et Hopkins, 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12228-024-09791-1

Photo by H.D. Clarke  

 instagram.com/taxa_ufma

Abstract

During the review of the Brazilian species of Lorostemon (Clusiaceae), we verified that some specimens previously reported as L. bombaciflorus Ducke for South Guyana and the Brazilian Eastern Amazonia belong to a species still unknown to science. Here, we provide a description, taxonomic comments, illustrations, and a distribution map of Lorostemon roseoviridis Fer.-Silva & L.Marinho, a new species from eastern Amazonia.

Keywords: Diversity, Flora, Guttiferae, Lorostemon roseoviridis, Symphonieae

Open flower of Lorostemon roseoviridis.

Photo by H.D. Clarke from the holotype, H.D. Clarke 7160.

Lorostemon roseoviridis Fer.-Silva & L.Marinho, sp. nov. 

TYPE: Guyana: Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region. Acarai Mts., summit of unnamed peak, ...

Etymology. The epithet refers to the predominant colors found in the flowers and derives from the Latin roseus (pink) and viridis (green). Ducke (1935) published the first species name in the genus as "L. bombaciflorum", indicating that Lorostemon would be neuter, but Art. 62.2 (a) of the ICN (Turland et al., 2018) states that compound generic names ending in -stemon are masculine.

Silvia Larissa Ferreira-Silva, Lucas C. Marinho, Thiago M. Mouzinho and Michael J. G. Hopkins. 2024. A New Species of Lorostemon (Clusiaceae) from the eastern Amazonia. Brittonia. 76, 132–136. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12228-024-09791-1

 www.instagram.com/p/C85ldVlpSs5

[Botany • 2024] Wedelia figueiredoana (Asteraceae: Heliantheae) • A winged cypselae New Species of Wedelia for Brazil

Wedelia figueiredoana V.R.Bueno,

in Bueno, Rodrigues, Sousa, Souza, Marzinek et Marques, 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.249.135699

Abstract

We describe one new species from Ceará state, Brazil: Wedelia figueiredoana. It is morphologically associated with W. bonplandiana, but distinguished by 0.25–1.05 cm leaf blade width (vs. 1.5–2.6 cm), linear to narrow oblong leaf blade (vs. elliptic to spatulate), 3-seriate involucre (vs. 2-seriate), and cypselae 3.9–4 mm long (vs. 6–7 mm). An anatomical analysis of cypselae is provided, and we propose a more accurate terminology to describe similar wings to Wedelia species. We also provide a scientific illustration of the new species, photos of habitat, a map of its geographic occurrence, and its taxonomic affinities are discussed with a taxonomic key to the Wedelia species with the apically pronounced wings in the cypselae.

Key words: Auricular projections, Cerrado, Compositae, fruit anatomy

Wedelia figueiredoana sp. nov.
A linear blade leaf B head (top view) C flowering branch D head and phyllaries (side view) E habit.

Wedelia figueiredoana sp. nov. habitat
A enclaves of Cerrado B Wedelia figueiredoana in the ferrugineous soil C floral visitor in the W. figueiredoana D prostrate habit E solitary herbaceous individual of W. figueiredoana.

 Wedelia figueiredoana V.R.Bueno, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Wedelia figueiredoana morphologically resembles W. bonplandiana by 0.25–1.05 cm leaf blade width (vs. 1.5–2.6 cm), linear to narrow oblong leaf blade (vs. elliptic to spatulate), 3-seriate involucre (vs. 2-seriate), and cypselae 3.9–4 mm long (vs. 6–7 mm).

Etymology: The epithet “figueiredoana” is in honor of Dr. Marlene Feliciano Figueiredo, born in 1963, a dedicated educator at Universidade Estadual Vale do Acaraú (UVA). Her dynamic engagement in teaching, research, and outreach, notably the Pensando Verde project, has left an indelible mark. Noteworthily, she was pivotal in founding and curating the Herbário Francisco José de Abreu Matos–HUVA (1998–2004), a vital botanical resource in Northwest Ceará. In botanical research, Figueiredo specializes in phanerogam taxonomy, floristics, ethnobotany, and seed germination ecophysiology, fostering a deep understanding of Northwestern Ceará’s intricate flora through her mentorship.

Vinicius R. Bueno, Leonardo S. Rodrigues, Francisco Diego Sousa, Izaías C. Souza, Juliana Marzinek and Danilo Marques. 2024. Wedelia figueiredoana (Asteraceae, Heliantheae), A winged cypselae New Species of Wedelia for Brazil. PhytoKeys. 249: 37-49. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.249.135699

[Crustacea • 2023] Polkamenes gen. nov. & Tympanicheles gen. nov. • Polka-dotted Treasures: Revising A Clade of Ascidian- and Bivalve-associated Shrimps (Caridea: Palaemonidae)

 

Polkamenes pycnodontae (Bruce, 1978),

  Tympanicheles ornatus (Holthuis, 1952),

 B) Anchistus australis, 

D) A. demani,  

F, H) A. miersi,

in de Gier et Fransen. 2023.  

DOI: doi.org/10.1163/18759866-bja10042 

 Researchgate.net/publication/370486457

photographs by C.H.J.M Fransen

Abstract

Most marine shrimp species of the family Palaemonidae are characterized by symbiotic associations with hosts that belong to a wide range of invertebrate phyla. One clade of related endosymbiotic species has evolved to live inside the branchial chambers of ascidians and the mantle cavities of bivalve molluscs. The phylogeny of this clade (comprising 15 bivalve-associated species in the genera Anchistus, Neoanchistus, and Paranchistus, and three species of ascidian-associated species in the genus Dasella) is the topic of the present study, which is based on both morphological and molecular data. A concatenated phylogeny reconstruction was built by using the markers coi and 16S. With the help of a total evidence approach (with a scored morphological datamatrix), species could be added for which no molecular data were available. An ancestral character state analysis was performed to detect host switches. In contrast to another endosymbiotic clade, the ancestral host state was found to be slightly in favour of bivalves. The phylogenetic relevance of morphological features is discussed with a focus on a tympanal organ located in the major chelipeds of some bivalve-associated shrimp species. This little-known anatomical structure is illustrated by sem and µCT scans. Its possible function is discussed. In the phylogeny reconstructions, both Anchistus and Paranchistus were found to be polyphyletic. They were reclassified to obtain a more natural classification: Anchistus custoides and Anchistus custos were transferred to the resurrected genus Ensiger. Paranchistus liui, P. nobilii, P. pycnodontae, and P. spondylis were transferred to Polkamenes gen. nov. Anchistus pectinis and P. ornatus were transferred to Tympanicheles gen. nov. Per genus, a key to the species is provided.

 

Keywords: commensal shrimp, host switching, symbiosis, taxonomic revision, total evidence

A) Anchistus australis Bruce, 1977, RMNH.CRUS.D.58048, stn ber.28, in Tridacna squamosa Lamarck, 1819; B) A. australis, RMNH.CRUS.D.53540, stn ter.12, in T. squamosa;
C) Anchistus demani Kemp, 1922, RMNH.CRUS.D.42792, stn sey.792, in Tridacna maxima (Röding, 1798); D) A. demani, RMNH.CRUS.D.58049, stn thu.07, in T. maxima;
E) Anchistus gravieri Kemp, 1922, RMNH.CRUS.D.58052, stn FR15, in Hippopus hippopus (L., 1758);
F) Anchistus miersi (De Man, 1888), RMNH.CRUS.D.42970, stn sey.720, in T. squamosa: G) A. miersi, RMNH.CRUS.D.46473, sw Sulawesi, in T. squamosa; H) A. miersi, RMNH.CRUS.D.53568, stn ter.19, in T. squamosa. 

photographs by C.H.J.M Fransen

Polkamenes pycnodontae (Bruce, 1978) RMNH.CRUS.D.48261, from Hyotissa hyotis (L., 1758)

 Genus Polkamenes gen. nov.

Etymology. ‘Polkamenes’: named after the characteristic blue-, red-, and orange-dotted pattern seen on the species’ carapace, abdomen, and appendages ‘Polka dots’ (English, in combination with the common palaemonid suffix ‘-menes’; see e.g., Ancylomenes Okuno & Bruce, 2010, Laomenes Clark, 1919, Periclimenes). Gender: masculine.

recognize four species: Polkamenes liui (Li, Bruce & Manning, 2004); Polkamenes nobilii (Holthuis, 1952); Polkamenes pycnodontae (Bruce, 1978); and Polkamenes spondylis (Suzuki, 1971).

Distribution. Shiraiso, Manazura-Machi, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, (cf. Suzuki, 1971, Hayashi, 2005, 2006); South China Sea (Li et al., 2004).

  Tympanicheles ornatus (Holthuis, 1952), RMNH.CRUS.D.42794, from Atrina vexillum (Born, 1778) 

Genus Tympanicheles gen. nov.

Etymology. ‘Tympanicheles’: named after the ‘drum-like’ veil on the species’ major chela. Built from ‘Tympani-’, a suffix for drum in Latin (‘Tympanum’), and ‘-cheles’ for claws in Latin. Gender: masculine.

 

  recognize two species: Tympanicheles ornatus (Holthuis, 1952), and Tympanicheles pectinis (Kemp, 1925).

 

 Werner de Gier and Charles H.J.M. Fransen. 2023. Polka-dotted Treasures: Revising A Clade of Ascidian- and Bivalve-associated Shrimps (Caridea: Palaemonidae). Contributions to Zoology. 92(3); 179-282. DOI: doi.org/10.1163/18759866-bja10042

  Researchgate.net/publication/370486457_Revising_a_clade_of_ascidian-_and_bivalve-associated_shrimps_Palaemonidae

 twitter.com/Werner_deGier/status/1653740009235570690

[Botany • 2024] Phyllanthus gandarelensis (Phyllanthaceae) • A New and Endangered tiny Species from Serra da Gandarela, Minas Gerais, Brazil

 Phyllanthus gandarelensis J.C.R.Mendes, R.Secco & P.L.Viana,  

in Mendes, Secco et Viana, 2024.

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12228-024-09779-x

 Researchgate.net/publication/380591936

Photographs: Heron O. Hilário, Drawing by Carlos Alvarez

Abstract

Field observations and specimens from herbaria revealed the existence of a new species of the genus Phyllanthus, restricted to the municipality of Santa Bárbara, André do Mato Dentro, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Characteristics such as the subsessile petiole and the size and morphology of the leaves, in addition to the pistallate flowers with 6 sepals, stipules, styles, and stigmas were important to recognize Phyllanthus gandarelensis as a new taxon. Description, illustrations, distribution and habitat, phenology, preliminary conservation status as Critically Endangered, and comments on its morphology, as well as a comparative table with its congener species are presented.

 Phyllanthus gandarelensis
A. Habit. B. Branch. C. Branch detail, showing stipules. D. Staminate flower. E. Pistillate flower. F. Fruit (capsule with accrescent calyx and persistent styles). G. Seeds, with obtriangular hilum and detail of ornamentation.

Drawing based on the holotype (drawn by Carlos Alvarez).

 Phyllanthus gandarelensis.
 A. Micro-habitat (resembling some cave environments). B. Habit. C. Detail of the stipules (subulate). D. Flowering branches. E. Leaf blade, with base asymmetric-cordate. F-G. Staminate flower showing stamens and glandular disk. H. Pistillate flower, with evident porrect styles. I. Capsules (mericarps 6, with accrescent calyx and persistent styles).

 (Photographs: Heron O. Hilário).

Phyllanthus gandarelensis J.C.R.Mendes, R.Secco & P.L.Viana, sp. nov. 

Etymology. The epithet “gandarelensis” is a reference to the mountain complex, known as Serra do Gandarela, where this species is found.

 

Jone Clebson Ribeiro Mendes, Ricardo de S. Secco and Pedro Lage Viana. 2024. An Account of A New and Endangered tiny Species of Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae) from Serra da Gandarela, Minas Gerais, Brazil.  Brittonia. 76; 26–32. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12228-024-09779-x

 Researchgate.net/publication/380591936_A_new_species_of_Phyllanthus_from_Minas_Gerais_Brazil

[Botany • 2024] Ornithogalum christiniae (Asparagaceae) • A New Species from an offshore islet on the Cretan Area (S. Aegean, Greece)

Ornithogalum christiniae  

in Kypriotakis, Tzanoudakis et Antaloudaki. 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/njb.04485

Abstract

Ornithogalum christiniae sp. nov., collected from the offshore islet of Agria Gramvousa (northwestern Crete, Greece), is described and illustrated as a locally endemic species. It is related to Ornithogalum montanum, O. atticum and O. pumilum, however, it differs from these in having wrinkled and corrugated leaf surface, fruiting pedicels thickened at base, flexuose rachis of infructescence and winged capsules. The relationships between the new species and the aforementioned are discussed, while information regarding its ecology, conservation status and karyotype is also given.

Keywords: Aegean Flora, island specialists, karyotypes, new species, Ornithogalum, taxonomy

Ornithogalum christiniae sp. nov. (Asparagaceae).
 (A) Plant habit at the stage of anthesis. (B) plant habit at the stage of fruit, (C) flower shape (apical and bottom view),
(D) leaf surface structure showing the differences between O. montanum leaf (left) and O. christiniae leaf (right).

Ornithogalum christiniae sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: A species showing some similarities with O. montanum, and to a lesser extent with O. atticum and O. pumilum, in having bulbs with concrescent scales, leaves more than 5 mm wide without a white stripe, a short raceme that is corymbiform at anthesis, entire filaments and hypogeal germination, however, it differs from these three species in having spherical to sub-spherical bulbs, wrinkled and corrugated leaf surface, basally thickened fruiting pedicel and winged capsules.

Etymology: The species epithet is dedicated to Dr Christini Fournaraki, Mediterranean Agronomical Institute of Chania (CIHEAM-MAICh), a well-known botanist and fellow in fieldwork.

 

Zacharias Kypriotakis, Dimitrios Tzanoudakis and Eleftheria Antaloudaki. 2024. Ornithogalum christiniae (Asparagaceae): A New Species from an offshore islet on the Cretan Area (S. Aegean, Greece). Nordic Journal of Botany.DOI: doi.org/10.1111/njb.04485

[Herpetology • 2024] Hemiphyllodactylus bokor & H. samkos • Review of the Slender Geckos (Squamata: Gekkonidae: Hemiphyllodactylus) of the Cardamom Mountains of southwestern Cambodia, with Descriptions of Two New Species and One Country Record

 

Hemiphyllodactylus bokor 
 Hemiphyllodactylus samkos

Neang, Samorn, Hun, Henson & Stuart, 2024 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5537.3.5

 

Abstract

The gekkonid lizard genus Hemiphyllodactylus contains small, secretive species that are often overlooked in their habitats. Recent molecular and morphological analyses have resulted in the descriptions of numerous new species of Hemiphyllodactylus in mainland Southeast Asia and southern China, many of which were historically hidden within the geographically widespread taxon H. yunnanensis (Boulenger, 1903). Little is known on species diversity and distributions of Hemiphyllodactylus in Cambodia, and all previous reports from the country have been limited to provisional identifications owing to collections containing only a single female or juvenile specimen. We report on new collections of Hemiphyllodactylus specimens from opposite ends of the Cardamom Mountain range in southwestern Cambodia. Morphological and molecular data support the hypothesis that these collections contain three distinct species, two of which are described as new species and one of which is assigned to the geographically widespread H. typus Bleeker, 1860 as a new country record for Cambodia. Hemiphyllodactylus bokor sp. nov. from Preah Monivong Bokor National Park in Kampot Province and Hemiphyllodactylus samkos sp. nov. from Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary in Pursat Province are related to species from adjacent areas in southern Vietnam, southern Laos, and southeastern Thailand, as well as a clade from India, but are readily differentiated in mitochondrial DNA and in having unique combinations of mensural and meristic morphological characters. Additional species diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus likely exists in Cambodia.

Reptilia, Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary, Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, phylogeny, taxonomy

Thy Neang, Vireak Samorn, Seiha Hun, Adam Henson and Bryan L. Stuart. 2024. Review of the Slender Geckos (Squamata: Gekkonidae: Hemiphyllodactylus) of the Cardamom Mountains of southwestern Cambodia, with Descriptions of Two New Species and One Country Record. Zootaxa. 5537(3); 377-394. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5537.3.5

[Arachnida • 2024] Trichopelma grande • A hairy Giant among Dwarves: A distinct New Species of Tarantula (Araneae: Theraphosidae) from Cuba

 

Trichopelma grande

Ortiz & Fonseca, 2024

 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2024.2401921 

ABSTRACT

Large size, tropical climate, topographic complexity, and millions of years of isolation have turned the Greater Antillean islands into natural laboratories of evolution. Several groups have experienced explosive diversification across these islands, leading to highly diverse and endemic biotas and species experiencing unique adaptations. Here we describe a new tarantula species from the Viñales area, a biodiversity hotspot in western Cuba. Despite being a middle-sized species with large projected setae on the legs, reminiscent of those in arboreal tarantulas, phylogenomic analysis, diagnostic morphological features, and trap-door retreat building behaviour identifies it as the largest known representative of Trichopelma, and the only one with such hirsute legs. We provide mitochondrial barcoding data and a database of ultraconserved elements loci of the holotype of this species, which will help to include it in future phylogenetic studies of Theraphosidae. Given its limited distribution range, and its apparent absence in natural history collections despite its distinct appearance, this species might be scarce, positioning it as a potential conservation concern.

 

KEYWORDS: Gigantism, Greater Antilles, phylogenomics, rare species, Trichopelmatinae, UCE sequencing

Family Theraphosidae Thorell, 1869

Genus Trichopelma Simon, 1888

Trichopelma grande sp. n.

 

David Ortiz and Elier Fonseca. 2024. A hairy Giant among Dwarves: Trichopelma grande, A distinct New Species of Tarantula from Cuba (Araneae: Theraphosidae). Journal of Natural History. 58(45-48); 2189-2205. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2024.2401921 

[Entomology • 2024] Celaenorrhinus qianhanae • A New Species of the Genus Celaenorrhinus Hübner, [1819] (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) from Hainan, China

 

Celaenorrhinus qianhanae Li & Li, 
C. aspersa Leech, 1891

in H.-Z. Li, Liu et J.-L. Li. 2024.  

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5405.2.6 

Abstract

A new species, Celaenorrhinus qianhanae Li & Liu sp. nov., is described from Hainan, China. Its unique genital characteristics and wing markings are compared with other congeneric species from this island and adjacent regions, including Vietnam and China, etc. In addition, its COI gene is sequenced for molecular analysis, and the secondary sexual character, hair tufts on hind tibiae, is discussed for comparison.

Lepidoptera, Tagiadinae, Celaenorrhinini, genitalia, phylogeny

 

Hua-Zhao LI, Zhe LIU and, Jia-Ling LI. 2024. A New Species of the Genus Celaenorrhinus Hübner, [1819] from Hainan, China (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae). Zootaxa. 5405(2); 265-272. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5405.2.6 

 Researchgate.net/publication/377777709_A_new_species_of_Celaenorrhinus_from_Hainan_China

 www.yahoo.com/news/peculiar-winged-creature-found-island-225546214.html

[Botany • 2024] Chayamaritia sirindhorniana (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Northeastern Thailand

 

Chayamaritia sirindhorniana D.J.Middleton, Tetsana & Suddee, 

in Middleton, Tetsana, Puudjaa, Kerdkaew et Suddee, 2024.   

คำหยาดศรีสิรินธร  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2024.52.2.14 

Abstract

The new species Chayamaritia sirindhorniana (Gesneriaceae) is described from materials collected in Loei Province in Northeastern Thailand. As it is currently only known from the type locality, further exploration of the region is needed to assess its conservation status.

Keywords: Chayamaritia, Didymocarpoideae, Loei, new species

Chayamaritia sirindhorniana D.J.Middleton, Tetsana & Suddee

Chayamaritia sirindhorniana D.J.Middleton, Tetsana & Suddee, sp. nov.

Similar to Chayamaritia smitinandii (B.L.Burtt) D.J.Middleton in general appearance but differs in having the calyx completely covered by patent villous hairs except for the apex, lobes obtuse or rounded at apex (calyx densely appressed pubescent including at the apex, lobes acute or acuminate at apex in C. smitinandii), the corolla outside light purple, inside dark purplish red with 2 ventral yellow lines, distally light purple on lower lip (deep purple throughout, inside with 2 ventral yellow lines, distally deep to slightly paler purple on lower lip in C. smitinandii).

Etymology.— The specific epithet is given in honour of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for her dedication to, and encouragement of, the Flora of Thailand Project.

David J. Middleton, Naiyana Tetsana, Pachok Puudjaa, Orathai Kerdkaew, Somran Suddee. 2024. A New Species of Chayamaritia (Gesneriaceae) from Thailand. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany). 52(2), 102–104. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2024.52.2.14 

  ‘คำหยาดศรีสิรินธร’ พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลกนามพระราชทาน เทิดพระเกียรติกรมสมเด็จพระเทพรัตนราชสุดาฯ

 คำหยาดดอกม่วงเทิดพระเกียรติ ‘กรมสมเด็จพระเทพรัตนฯ’ ที่ทรงสนับสนุนโครงการพรรณพฤกษชาติประเทศไทย เผย ‘นักพฤษศาสตร์กรมอุทยานฯ’ ค้นพบร่วมกับทีมเจ้าหน้าที่ลาดตระเวนเขตรักษาพันธุ์ฯ ภูค้อ-ภูกระแต อ.หนองหิน จ.เลย ขึ้นบนเขาหินทราย ชี้เป็นพืชหายากควรค่าอนุรักษ์ เหตุประชากรขนาดเล็กพื้นที่จำเพาะ ...

[Entomology • 2024] Autocrates soni • A New Species of Autocrates (Coleoptera: Trictenotomidae) from Vietnam revealed by DNA Barcoding and Morphological Evidence

Autocrates soni

Cho Hee-Wook & Kim Kang-Rae, 2024  

  

DOI: 10.37520/aemnp.2024.018

Abstract

Autocrates soni sp. nov. is described from Vietnam based on morphological and molecular evidence. This beetle is characterised by reddish-brown pubescence on its ventral side and much shorter setae on its femora compared to the closely related species Autocrates vitalisi Vuillet, 1912. The validity of this new species is strongly supported by DNA barcode data from all known species of the genus Autocrates.

Key words: Coleoptera, Tenebrionoidea, Trictenotomidae, Autocrates, new species, DNA barcoding, phylogeny, Vietnam, Oriental Region

Type locality of Autocrates soni sp. nov.
 A–B – light equipment used for collecting; C–D – living individuals attracted by light

(photographed by Min-Woo Son).

Autocrates soni sp. nov.

Differential diagnosis. Autocrates soni sp. nov. is almost identical to A. vitalisi Vuillet, 1912, in its general appearance and genital structure. However, the new species can be distinguished by the reddish-brown pubescence on the ventral side as shown in Fig. 5A (yellow, ochre to ochre-greyish in A. vitalisi as in Fig. 5B); femora except inner margin covered with sparse punctures bearing short setae (much longer setae in A. vitalisi); dorsum black with very weak metallic lustre (dorsum generally cupreous, purple or pale green metallic in A. vitalisi). Autocrates lini Hu, Drumont & Telnov, 2022, is also similar, but diff ers in the golden pubescence on venter and glabrous dorsum. 

Etymology. This new species is dedicated to Mr. Hyunsu Son (Hwaseong, South Korea), an amateur beetle collector who first pointed out the morphological diff erences of this new species.

Distribution. Vietnam: Khanh Hoa.

 

Cho Hee-Wook and Kim Kang-Rae. 2024. A New Species of Autocrates (Coleoptera: Trictenotomidae) revealed by DNA Barcoding and Morphological Evidence. Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae. 64(2); 269-276. DOI: doi.org/10.37520/aemnp.2024.018

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