[Botany • 2026] Ophiorrhiza saxatilis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Guizhou, China

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li,

in Li, An, Wu, Yu, Qiu, Liu et Tan, 2026. 

 岩生蛇根草  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.197480

Abstract

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li, sp. nov., a new species of the genus Ophiorrhiza (Rubiaceae) discovered in the karst regions of Guizhou, China, and provides its taxonomic basis from a morphological perspective. The new species is morphologically similar to Ophiorrhiza lignosa, but differs from the latter by having an inflorescence in that its young branches are uniformly pubescent (vs. bifariously pubescent in O. lignosa); the abaxial leaf surface is pubescent (vs. puberulent only along the midrib and secondary veins in O. lignosa); the bracteoles are 5–6 mm long (vs. 1.5–3 mm long in O. lignosa); the petioles are 2–5.8 mm long (vs. 6–20 mm long in O. lignosa); the stamens are inserted at the base of the corolla tube (vs. inserted near the middle of the corolla tube in O. lignosa); the flowers are distylous (vs. monomorphic with pin flowers in O. lignosa), and the styles of long-styled flowers are 6–8 mm long (vs. 10–11 mm long in O. lignosa). These stable and significant morphological differences, combined with a comprehensive and detailed morphological description of the new species and a comparison of diagnostic characters with similar species, firmly support the recognition of Ophiorrhiza saxatilis as a distinct new species.

Key words: Karst, Morphology, New Taxon, Ophiorrhiza, Rubiaceae

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis.
A, B. Habitat; C. Plant; D. Flowering branch; E. Dissected flowers: long-styled flower (above) and short-styled flower (below); F. Style of long-styled flower; G. Style of short-styled flower; H. Longitudinally dissected short-styled flower; I. Longitudinally dissected long-styled flower; J. Fruit; K. Infructescence; L. Adaxial leaf surface; M. Abaxial leaf surface; N. Branchlets.

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Ophiorrhiza saxatilis is morphologically similar to O. lignosa Merr., but can be distinguished by several key characteristics (Table 2): uniformly pubescent young branches (vs. bifariously pubescent); white corolla lobes with ridges (vs. purple, without ridges); stamens inserted at the base of the corolla tube (vs. inserted near the middle of the corolla tube); flowers distylous (vs. monomorphic, with pin flowers); long-styled flowers 6–8 mm long (vs. 10–11 mm long); purple midrib on the abaxial leaf surface (vs. green); abaxial leaf surface pubescent (vs. puberulent only on the midrib and secondary veins); bracteoles 5–6 mm long (vs. 1.5–3 mm long); and petioles 2–5.8 mm long (vs. 6–20 mm long).

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from the habitat of the new species, which occurs in a typical karst limestone environment. It mainly grows in harsh habitats such as rock crevices and stony slopes.

Local name. Simplified Chinese: 岩生蛇根草;
Chinese Pinyin: yán shēng shé gēn cǎo.

 Guang-Lin Li, Ming-Tai An, Xu Wu, Jiang-Hong Yu, Jian Qiu, Shao-Fei Liu and Cheng-jiang Tan. 2026. Ophiorrhiza saxatilis (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Guizhou, China. PhytoKeys. 278: 27-37.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.197480 [24-07-2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Pristimantis milpe • Long overdue: A New, widespread, species of Pristimantis (Anura: Strabomantidae) from the Chocó region and the synonymy of Pristimantis subsigillatus

 Pristimantis milpe 

Ron, Paredes-Aguirre, Paucar, López, Apunte & Ortega, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1286.194383  

 x.com/santiak

Abstract

As currently defined, Pristimantis subsigillatus is a species of the P. lacrimosus species group distributed in the Chocó of Colombia and Ecuador, from lowlands to Andean foothill forests. Upon re-examination of the holotype of P. subsigillatus, we conclude that the populations currently ascribed to P. subsigillatus are not conspecific with the holotype. Instead, the holotype is conspecific with one of the syntypes of P. latidiscus, a species described four years before from a nearby locality. To avoid the ambiguity in the application of the binomen Hylodes latidiscus, we designate a lectotype. As a result, P. subsigillatus becomes a junior synonym of P. latidiscus. The misidentified populations represent an undescribed species which we describe based on morphological, bioacoustic, and genetic data as Pristimantis milpe sp. nov. The new species has one of the widest distributions among Chocoan Pristimantis and is unusual for having sexual dimorphism in coloration. It is most closely related to Pristimantis degener from which it diverged in the late Miocene and is morphologically distinct. The fact that such a common species remained “invisible” to taxonomy highlights the importance of correctly establishing the link between the name-bearing types and natural populations. Finally, we discuss how taxonomic treatments of Pristimantis during the second half of the 20th century often made this non-trivial error.

Key words: Andes, holotype, integrative taxonomy, lectotype, phylogeny, systematics

Pristimantis milpe sp. nov.

Common name. English: Milpe Rain Frog.
Spanish: Cutín de Milpe.

Diagnosis. We assign the new species to the genus Pristimantis based on the phylogeny (Fig. 5). Species of Pristimantis characterized by: (1) smooth to slightly tuberculate dorsal skin, areolate belly; discoidal fold evident; dorsolateral folds absent; (2) tympanum condition B; tympanic ring covered dorsally by supratympanic fold, tympanic membrane not differentiated; (3) truncate snout in dorsal view and protruding in lateral view; (4) upper eyelid generally without tubercles (occasionally one tiny tubercle present); (5) cranial crests absent; (6) oblique dentigerous processes of vomers; (7) vocal slits present, nuptial pads ...

Photographs showing color variation in living adult males of  Pristimantis milpe sp. nov.
 A. QCAZ-A 77106, holotype, SVL = 24.77 mm; B. QCAZ-A 76585, paratype, SVL = 26.97 mm; C. QCAZ-A 76518, paratype, SVL = 26.06 mm; D. QCAZ-A 65561, SVL = 19.64 mm; E. QCAZ-A 67428, SVL = 26.47 mm. Left column: dorsolateral view; central column: dorsal view; right column: ventral view. F. QCAZ-A 79899; note significant color change within a period of less than 24 h. Locality data for all specimens is provided in the holotype and paratypes sections.

Photographs showing color variation in living adult/subadult females of Pristimantis milpe sp. nov.
  A. QCAZ-A 67424, paratype, adult female, SVL = 32.07 mm; B. QCAZ-A 45268, paratype, subadult female, SVL = 29.44 mm; C. QCAZ-A 74171, paratype, adult female, SVL = 34.21 mm; D. QCAZ-A 74172, paratype, adult female, SVL = 34.17 mm; E. QCAZ-A 51314, adult female, SVL = 33.13 mm. Left column: dorsolateral view; central column: dorsal view; right column: ventral view. Locality data for all specimens is provided in the paratypes section.

Etymology. The specific epithet is a noun in apposition and refers to the type locality, the Milpe Bird Sanctuary, a private reserve in Pichincha Province, Ecuador. The sanctuary protects ~ 100 ha of Foothill Montane Forest and is part of the Andean Chocó, one of the most diverse and threatened regions on the planet. The Milpe Bird Sanctuary is managed by the Mindo Cloudforest Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity in the Andean Chocó. The Foundation maintains close relationships with local communities, promoting environmental education, sustainable livelihoods, and participatory management of natural resources. It also supports other private reserves and local Decentralized Autonomous Governments in forest restoration through the production of native plants in their nurseries, strengthening long-term conservation in the region.

Santiago R. Ron, Poulette Paredes-Aguirre, Diego A. Paucar, Yaara López, Katherine Apunte and Jhael A. Ortega. 2026. Long overdue: A New, widespread, species of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the Chocó region and the synonymy of Pristimantis subsigillatus. ZooKeys. 1286: 121-152. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1286.194383 [24 Jul 2026] 

 x.com/santiak/status/2081416238371135900

[Herpetology • 2026] Scincella dabieshanensis • A new Scincella species (Squamata: Scincidae) from the Dabie Mountains, China

 Scincella dabieshanensis Zhang, Yi, Zhang & Zhang,

 in H. Zhang, Yi, Yang, Wang, Xu, Zhan, Zhai, Chu, Hou, Y. Zhang, Wen, C. Zhang et B. Zhang, 2026.   

Dabie Mountains Ground Skink | 大别山滑蜥  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.187997 

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated the polyphyly of Scincella modesta and reported a new record of Scincella vandenburghi in Qingdao, Shandong Province. Furthermore, the research highlighted significant morphological similarities between the Qingdao population of S. vandenburghi and a branch of S. modesta from Hubei, leaving the taxonomic boundaries between these two species unclear. To better understand the relationship between S. modesta and S. vandenburghi, we conducted extensive sampling in the Dabie Mountains, which geographically lie between Qingdao, Ningbo and Yichang. Based on phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons, we identify an undescribed species of the genus Scincella from the Dabie Mountains, China and also discover the presence of a population of S. vandenburghi in the same region. Morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses indicate that the new species is similar to S. vandenburghi, but clearly distinct from it and other congeners. The new species has the following characteristics: (1) slender body, small size, snout-vent length 24.47–40.60 mm; (2) supraciliaries 6 or 7; (3) midbody scale row counts 28–31; (4) dorsal scales smooth and slightly enlarged, paravertebral scale row counts 55–68, ventral scale row counts 55–64; (5) upper edge of lateral longitudinal stripes relatively wavy, lower edge irregular, covering 2–2.5 scale rows on the trunk; (6) black dorsolateral stripes from posterior corner of eye to lateral side of tail, six rows of dorsal scales in middle; (7) supralabials 7, infralabials 6 or 7; (8) tympanum diameters significantly smaller than palpebral disc diameters; (9) 9–12 enlarged lamellae beneath finger IV and 14–17 beneath toe IV; (10) 3–4 pairs of nuchal scales; (11) when the limbs are pressed down, toes and fingers touch or overlap. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that the population from the Dabie Mountains in Anhui Province, China, represents a new species, with a 3% uncorrected genetic distance in 16S rRNA from its closest relative (S. vandenburghi). This discovery brings the total number of Scincella species in China to 19, identifying the known distribution of the genus. We have made preliminary progress in clarifying the relationship between S. vandenburghi and S. modesta; however, the polyphyletic issues surrounding S. modesta warrant further investigation in future research. Additionally, the distribution patterns and divergence times of the two Scincella species in the Dabie Mountains require further study to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

Key Words: molecular phylogeny, morphological characters, Scincella dabieshanensis sp. nov., Scincella modesta, taxonomy

Holotype of Scincella dabieshanensis sp. nov. (AHU 25079) in life. Photo by Caiwen Zhang.

Scincella dabieshanensis Zhang, Yi, Zhang & Zhang, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Scincella dabieshanensis sp. nov. can be diagnosed from other Scincella species by the following unique combination of characters: (1) slender body, small size, snout-vent length 24.47–40.60 mm; (2) supraciliaries 6 or 7; (3) midbody scale row counts 28–31; (4) dorsal scales smooth and slightly enlarged, paravertebral scale row counts 55–68, ventral scale row counts 55–64; (5) upper edge of lateral longitudinal stripes relatively wavy, lower edge irregular, covering 2–2.5 scale rows on the trunk; (6) black dorsolateral stripes from posterior corner of eye to lateral side of tail, six rows of dorsal scales in middle; (7) supralabials 7, infralabials 6 or 7; (8) tympanum diameters significantly smaller than palpebral disc diameters; (9) 9–12 enlarged lamellae beneath finger IV and 14–17 beneath toe IV; (10) 3–4 pairs of nuchal scales; (11) when the limbs are pressed down, toes and fingers touch or overlap.

Etymology. The specific epithet dabieshanensis is derived from the type locality, the Dabie Mountains, located at the boundary of Anhui, Henan and Hubei Provinces. We propose the English name of “Dabie Mountains Ground Skink” and the Chinese common name is “Dà Bié Shān Huá Xī (大别山滑蜥)”.

 Hailin Zhang, Feng Yi, Lulu Yang, Xinjian Wang, Shihang Xu, Zhiqiang Zhan, Xinyi Zhai, Jun Chu, Minggen Hou, Yucai Zhang, Jing Wen, Caiwen Zhang, Baowei Zhang. 2026. A new Scincella species (Squamata, Scincidae) from the Dabie Mountains, China, with Delimitation of its closely related congeners. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(4): 1005-1022. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.187997 [24-07-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Petrocosmea anoleuca (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from limestone cliffs in Yunnan, China

 

Petrocosmea anoleuca   M.Q.Han & C.Liu, 

in Liu, Cai, Zhong, Zhao, Wang et Han, 2026.

沧源石蝴蝶  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-026-10406-z

 

Summary

Petrocosmea anoleuca M.Q.Han & C.Liu (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China, is described and colour images and a provisional IUCN conservation assessment are provided. The new species is similar to P. cavaleriei H.Lév., but differs in having subpeltate leaf blades, a white corolla tube base lacking spots, a darker purple throat, purple abaxial lip lobes and nearly straight, sparsely puberulent filaments.

Key Words: Flora of Yunnan, Karst habitats, taxonomy

Petrocosmea anoleuca, images and SEM images.
A – B habit, in natural habit; C – D flower, front view; E flower, side view; F flower bud; G corolla, longitudinally cut; H corolla, transversely cut; J peltate leaf blade, abaxial surface; K – L SEM; K rhizomatous stem; L ovary; M ovary, transversely cut; N pollen.

photos: a – b Cheng Liu and c – k Mengqi Han.

Petrocosmea anoleuca M.Q.Han & C.Liu sp. nov. 

Recognition. Similar to Petrocosmea cavaleriei, but differing in having subpeltate leaf blades (vs petiole attached at the base in P. cavaleriei), the base of the corolla tube white and lacking spots (vs with three antepetalous spots above the base), the throat inside abaxially darker purple (vs white), the abaxial lip lobes purple (vs pale purple, with two yellow spots at the sinuses between the lateral and median lobes) and filaments almost straight and very sparsely puberulent and with scattered capitate-glandular hairs (vs geniculate near the middle, forming an angle of about 160° and densely covered with capitate-glandular hairs).

Etymology. The term anoleuca derives from Greek roots, ano- (ἄνω, "above") and -leuca (λευκός, "white"), literally meaning "white above". The epithet of the new species refers to the white, upper section of the corolla when in bloom.

vernacular name. Chinese name: cāng yuán shí hú dié (沧源石蝴蝶).

Cheng Liu, Jie Cai, Liang-Liang Zhong, Jin-Chao Zhao, Qiang Wang and Meng-Qi Han. 2026. Petrocosmea anoleuca (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from limestone cliffs in Yunnan, China.  Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-026-10406-z  [21 July 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Mitrephora rashmiae (Annonaceae) • A New Species from Indian Himalaya, representing the first record of andromonoecy for the genus

 

Mitrephora rashmiae

in Page, Kishwan et Thackeray. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70134 

 facebook.com: Thackeray Wildlife Foundation

ABSTRACT

A new species of Mitrephora is described from Arunachal Pradesh, India. It can be distinguished from its congeners based on a combination of morphological characters such as evergreen leaf phenology, unbranched inflorescences with up to 8 flowers, inner petals being subequal or equal in length relative to the outer petals and stipitate, beaked, cylindric monocarps. This species is unique in the shape and geometry of the miter (dome) which is longer than broad (length: diameter ratio 1.25). This species is also the only andromonoecious species known in the genus to date. This discovery represents only the second record of the genus from the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot.

Keywords: Arunachal Pradesh, Malmeoideae, Miliuseae, staminate flower

Mitrephora rashmiae

 

Navendu V. Page, Shivam Kishwan and Tejas U. Thackeray. 2026. A New Species of Mitrephora (Annonaceae) from Indian Himalaya, representing the first record of andromonoecy for the genus. Feddes Repertorium. e70134. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70134 [07 July 2026] 

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[Botany • 2026] Cryptanthus pataxoanus & C. beuckeri • Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century

 

Cryptanthus pataxoanus  Forzza & Leme,

in Leme, Fernandez, Fontana, Almeida et Forzza, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1 

Abstract

The authors describe and illustrate a new species of Cryptanthus, C. pataxoanus, found within the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, and present new data on its closest morphological relative, C. beuckeri, both endemic to the Atlantic Forest of the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). The new taxon represents one of the most ornamental discoveries in recent years due to its marbled foliage, with contrasting greenish-yellow and dark green colors, which is similar to C. beuckeri. The main differences between C. pataxoanus and its closest relative include leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, the much broader portion of the blades distinctly longer, the narrower sepals covered by brown-centered trichomes, and petals without glandulose trichomes. The discovery of the new species results from cooperative work with the Pataxó indigenous community living in Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands, located within the boundaries of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park. It symbolizes the inexhaustible richness of the Brazilian biodiversity in general and the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia in particular, despite its current coexistence with high levels of threat.

Monocots, Atlantic Forest, Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, morphology, taxonomy

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A, B. Details of the population at the type locality. C. Habit. Photos: S. Caram (A, B); E. Leme (C).

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A. Elongate stem. B. Details of the marginal spines. C. Inflorescence. D. Details of the inflorescence. E–O. Perfect flower. E. Floral bracts of the basal fascicles. F. Sepals. G. Petal and stamens. H. Stigma. I. Frontal view of the anther just before anthesis. J. Abaxial view of the anther just before the anthesis. K. Basal fascicle. L. Flower. M. Basal portion of the petal and stamens. N. Details of the apex of the sepals. O. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary. P–T. Staminate flower: P. Flower of the inner portion of the inflorescence. Q. Floral bract. R. Details of the apex of the sepal. S. Sepals. T. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary.

 Photos: E. Leme. Bars: A = 2 cm; B, C, K, L, P = 1 cm; D–G, M–O, Q–T = 5 mm; H–J = 1 mm.

 Cryptanthus pataxoanus Forzza & Leme, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—This new species can be distinguished from its morphologically closest relative, Cryptanthus beuckeri, by the leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, with subpetioles gradually merging into the much broader distal portion (vs. always distinctly petiolate, with petioles strongly contrasting with the much broader distal portion); the much broader portion of the blades longer (20–30 cm vs. 10–20 cm long); sepals with narrower lobes (vs. 2–2.5 mm vs. 3.5–4 mm wide) covered by distinctly brown-centered trichomes (vs. trichomes white); and petals without glandulose trichomes (vs. adaxially bearing glandulose trichomes).

Etymology:—The name of this new species honors the Pataxó indigenous people. They belong to the Macro-Jê linguistic family and have a long history of resistance, facing challenges such as reclaiming their traditional lands and promoting the value of their culture since the 16th century. The Pataxó predominantly inhabit the extreme south of Bahia, which includes the area of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park where the Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands are located. They maintain strong traditions, such as the Patxohã language, rituals (like the Awê), and the use of body paintings that serve as cultural identifiers, in addition to promoting the conservation of the environment within their traditional natural territory.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus.
B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus. B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.
C–F. Illegal selective logging and habitat degradation associated with mule trampling used for clandestine timber extraction inside the park. Photos: R.C. Forzza (B); C. Rodrigues (C, D, E, F).

ELTON M. C. LEME, EDUARDO P. FERNANDEZ, ANDRÉ P. FONTANA, PEDRO S. DE ALMEIDA and RAFAELA C. FORZZA. 2026. Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae, Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century.  Phytotaxa. 763(3); 201-218. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1  [2026-06-24]

[Botany • 2026] Disporum yobinorum (Colchicaceae) • A New Species from Eastern Himalaya, India

  

Disporum yobinorum 

in Sahani et Chowlu, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.11 

Researchgate.net/publication/410044052

Disporum Salisbury (1812) (Colchicaceae) comprises 42 accepted species worldwide (POWO 2026). In India, Disporum is represented by 10 accepted names including 6 species and varieties (POWO, 2026). Additionally, Dasgupta (2006) treated all Indian taxa under a single species; a broadly circumscribed D. cantoniense (Loureiro; 1790: 206) Merrill (1919: 229). There are 24 species distributed in Bhutan, China, India, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Sikkim, Thailand and Vietnam (Liang & Tamura 2000, Li et al. 2007, Hu et al. 2016, Zhu et al. 2016 Hareesh et al. 2018, WCSPF 2018).

Monocots, Disporum yobinorum, new species, Eastern Himalaya, Colchicaceae

Disporum yobinorum sp. nov. 

VINAY KUMAR SAHANI and KRISHNA CHOWLU. 2026. Disporum yobinorum (Colchicaceae), A New Species from Eastern Himalaya, India.  Phytotaxa. 767(1); 93-97. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.11 [2026-07-16] 

Researchgate.net/publication/410044052_Disporum_yobinorum_a_new_species_from_Eastern_Himalaya_India

[Botany • 2026] Mazus dabieshanensis (Mazaceae) • A New Species from eastern China

Mazus dabieshanensis  R.Tong and T.Deng, 

in Tong, Shen, Luo et Deng, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05176

Abstract

Mazus dabieshanensis, a newly described species endemic to the Dabieshan Mountains in eastern China, is illustrated and described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear and chloroplast DNA sequences consistently demonstrate that this new species forms a stable clade with other Mazus species characterized by a pubescent ovary. Morphologically, the new species is readily distinguished by its hard and numerous stolons, plants with white villous, leaves attenuate into a petiole-like base, corolla upper lip bilobed, lobes without odontolobate incisions. This unique combination of characteristics effectively differentiates it from all other known Mazus species. In conclusion, both morphological evidence and molecular phylogenetic analyses support that this species belongs to Mazus and represents a previously unreported new species clearly distinct from other members of the genus.

Keywords: Dabieshan Mountains, Mazus, morphology, new species, phylogeny

 

Morphology of Mazus dabieshanensis.
 (A) Habitat: forest edge, (B) plant in April, (C) plant in August, (D) leaves, (E) stolons, (F) flower in lateral view, (G) flowers in face view, (H) pubescent ovary, (I) seeds.

Mazus dabieshanensis R.Tong and T.Deng sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Mazus dabieshanensis differs from M. saltuarius in its pubescent ovary (versus glabrous), more than four pairs of cauline leaves (versus 2–4 pairs), and serrate leaf margin (versus coarsely serrate). It differs from M. procumbens in its forest habitat (versus cliff habitat), serrate leaf margin (versus coarsely crenate), and leaf attenuate into a petiole (versus with distinct long petiole).

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘dabieshanensis' refers to the mountains in which it occurs, the Dabieshan Mountains, eastern China.

 Rui Tong, Zhuo-Min Shen, Peng-Rui Luo, Tao Deng. 2026. Mazus dabieshanensis sp. nov. (Mazaceae) from eastern China. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05176 [23 July 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Megophrys praestes • A Comprehensive Review of the Megophrys (Brachytarsophrys) carinensis group (Amphibia: Megophryidae) reveals A New giant horned frog from Indochina and Evidence for Taxonomic Inflation in the feae Group

  

Megophrys praestes

Mahony, Phimmachak, Seateun, Sivongxay, Hoang, Le, Streicher, Rowley & Stuart, 2026

 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5854.1.1  

  facebook.com/JodiRowley

Abstract

The Megophrys subgenus Brachytarsophrys includes the largest species of Asian horned frogs north of the Malay Peninsula. The subgenus comprises two clades known as the feae group and carinensis group. Though the Chinese members of the feae group have been the focus of recent taxonomic studies, little is known of the two members of the carinensis group, M. carinensis and M. intermedia, from Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. Megophrys carinensis was long considered to be widespread in China until, relatively recently, some populations were found to represent species of the feae group, indicating that there is widespread confusion regarding the identification of M. carinensis. No sequence data have been available for M. carinensis and M. intermedia from their respective type localities to verify their genetic identities.

In this study, a near complete review of the global knowledge of the carinensis group is provided based on the literature, supplemented with multi-locus molecular phylogenetic analyses and a comprehensive morphological dataset for 35 adult specimens and five juveniles. Recently collected samples from 12 specimens of M. intermedia (including from the Langbiang Plateau) were sequenced, and a minimally destructive archival DNA Illumina protocol was used to obtain the complete mitochondrial genome for a 137-year-old ethanol preserved “topotype” of M. carinensis.

Molecular phylogenetic analyses identified two deeply divergent lineages in M. intermedia, one from the type locality of M. intermedia and a second representing all other previously sequenced populations of M. “intermedia” from outside the upper reaches of the Langbiang Plateau. The morphological data for adult frogs also strongly supported the recognition of two diagnosable taxa within M. intermedia sensu lato. Adults differed in morphometrics and qualitative characteristics, but the tadpoles differed slightly in morphometrics but not in any qualitative characteristics. Detailed taxonomic redescriptions are provided for both M. carinensis and M. intermedia, and a new species of Megophrys from the carinensis group is described. A comprehensive literature review of these three species is provided, identifications of populations are updated, and new information is given on behaviour and habitat association. A counter argument to the recent proposal to treat some of Malcolm Smith’s species epithets as nouns in apposition to the gender of the genus name is provided, clarifying the spelling of M. intermedia (and proposing to reject Alcalus pullus as the valid name for A. tasanae), and correcting the gender of M. carinensis and M. platyparieta. We highlight extensive misunderstandings in the literature regarding the identities of the type series of both M. carinensis and M. intermedia, and revise the geographic distributions of all species based on published and unpublished evidence (including online citizen science data).

Published records of M. “carinensis” from China, Laos, Vietnam, and India are individually reviewed to clarify the taxonomic identities of many of the populations. All Chinese and Vietnamese populations are suggested to represent feae group taxa, and we provide the most complete account of the distribution of this group. Fundamental errors are identified in the original descriptions of all recent feae group species (M. popei, M. orientalis, Megophrys guilinensis comb. nov., Megophrys qiannanensis comb. nov., Megophrys wenshanensis comb. nov., and Megophrys wui comb. nov.), surmising that there is currently insufficient evidence to morphologically diagnose the marginally genetically divergent named populations M. orientalis, M. guilinensis comb. nov. and M. wui comb. nov. as distinct from M. popei, and propose their synonymy. Beyond updates to the identification of populations resulting from this proposed synonymy, provisional updates are recommended for the identifications of more than 30 additional known Chinese populations.

Megophrys intermedia is now range-restricted to upper elevations on the Langbiang Plateau. Based on a review of the species’ extinction threat status, we recommend that it should potentially be considered Endangered, further highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive modern taxonomic redescriptions of historically described species in Southeast Asia.

Amphibia, Anura, Megophryinae, toad, taxonomy, systematics, nomenclature, literature review, natural history, phylogenetics, conservation, Endangered, China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam

Megophrys praestes sp. nov. 

 

STEPHEN MAHONY, Somphouthone PHIMMACHAK, Sengvilay SEATEUN, Niane SIVONGXAY, Huy Duc HOANG, Duong Thi Thuy LE, Jeffrey W. STREICHER, Jodi J. L. ROWLEY and Bryan L. STUART. 2026. A Comprehensive Review of the Megophrys (Brachytarsophrys) carinensis group (Amphibia: Megophryidae) reveals A New giant horned frog from Indochina and Evidence for Taxonomic Inflation in the feae Group.  Zootaxa. 5854(1); 1-166. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5854.1.1 [2026-07-24] 

 facebook.com/JodiRowley/posts/10162722793400952

  

[Paleontology • 2026] Climate-extreme-driven Genesis of A Cretaceous Dinosaur Lagerstätte

 

 in Fanti, Consorti, Muscioni, Baldassari, Dinelli, Polentarutti, ... et Chiarenza. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.gloplacha.2026.105589 

 x.com/AAlechiarenza

Artwork by palaeoartist Davide Bonadonna

Highlights: 

• Monsoon-driven storms created a Cretaceous dinosaur Lagerstätte.

• Tidal microcouplets yield an unprecedented ∼40-year chronometry.

• Synchrotron micro-XRF/XRD maps refute seasonal varve interpretation.

• Microbial mats enabled rapid sealing and exceptional soft-tissue preservation.

• New genetic model and toolkit for climate event-driven preservation in carbonates.

Abstract

Konservat-Lagerstätten provide exceptional records of past ecosystems, yet the environmental and climatic processes governing their formation in extreme climatic regimes remain a significant, unresolved conundrum. Here we present a novel, process-based mechanism for the Villaggio del Pescatore Konservat-Lagerstätte (northeastern Italy; Late Cretaceous, 80 Ma), which preserves a diverse terrestrial and aquatic biota. Integrating high resolution synchrotron micro-analyses, bulk geochemistry, detailed taphonomy and palaeoclimate simulations we identify a dynamic, monsoon-paced tidal flat ecosystem within a carbonate coastal margin. Field and core records comprise metrescale packages of laterally persistent light–dark laminae; microstratigraphic, spectral and statistical analyses indicate a semidiurnal tidal regime with neap–spring modulation. MicroXRF/XRD mapping reveals that individual microlaminae within couplets share the same elemental inventory refuting a seasonal varve origin. Laminae chronometry, tied to the tidal interpretation, constrains net accumulation of the fossil bearing rhythmites to decadal (∼40 year) timescales. Geochemical proxies record alternating terrigenous rich, high TOC intervals and drier, better oxygenated intervals. Palaeoclimate model ensembles diagnose a vigorous, summer dominated monsoon domain at ∼29° N under greenhouse boundary conditions. We document that episodic monsoon enhanced flood and tropical cyclone pulses delivered sediment, nutrients, carcasses and plant debris to a microbially active, carbonate tidal flat; microbial mats rapidly stabilised and promoted early cementation, enabling exceptional soft tissue preservation. We propose a genetic model in which monsoon–cyclone forcing, tidal trapping and microbial sealing combine to produce decadal, daily resolved vertebrate Lagerstätten in greenhouse settings, offering predictive targets for similar deposits and deep time analogues for modern coastal change.

Keywords: Exceptional fossil preservation, Dinosauria, Crocodylomorpha, Arthropoda, Plants, Italy

“Stormbringer” — palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of Villaggio del Pescatore
The artwork shows a Tethyshadros insularis carcass and an Acynodon crocodylian on a storm-swept tropical tidal flat, beneath the monsoon clouds and a distant cyclone that the study identifies as the engine of the site’s formation.

 by palaeoartist Davide Bonadonna. 

 

Federico Fanti, Lorenzo Consorti, Marco Muscioni, Lorenzo Baldassari, Enrico Dinelli, Maurizio Polentarutti, Giorgio Bais, Alexander Farnsworth, Evelyn Kustatscher, Amalia Spina and Alfio Alessandro Chiarenza. 2026. Climate-extreme-driven Genesis of A Cretaceous Dinosaur Lagerstätte. Global and Planetary Change.  265, October 2026, 105589. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.gloplacha.2026.105589

 x.com/AAlechiarenza/status/2074802383733813269

[Arachnida • 2026] Tigidia singhal • A New Species of the Trapdoor Spider Genus Tigidia Simon, 1892 (Araneae: Barychelidae) from the Deccan Plateau, India

Tigidia singhal

 Tripathi, Bolde & Vanak, 2026

 

 DOI: doi.org/10.13156/arac.2026.20.5.15 

 Researchgate.net/publication/408253064

 

Abstract

A new species of trapdoor spider, Tigidia singhal sp. nov., is described from the semi-arid grasslands of the Deccan Plateau in Maharashtra, India. Detailed morphological descriptions, measurements, and illustrations of the holotype female are provided. This discovery marks the first record of the genus Tigidia from a semi-arid, open natural ecosystem, significantly expanding its known biogeographic range beyond the evergreen and deciduous forest habitats of peninsular India. Additionally, we document natural history observations, including burrow architecture and microhabitat preferences. This find highlights the underexplored diversity of Indian mygalomorph spiders and underscores the critical need for biodiversity surveys in open natural ecosystems.

KEYWORDS: burrowing behaviour, Mygalomorphae, range extension, semi-arid ecosystem, systematics

Tigidia singhal sp. nov., field photographs.
A collection locality; B holotype female; C excavated burrow showing silk lining; D schematic representation of burrow architecture.

Tigidia singhal sp. nov., holotype female.
A habitus, dorsal view; B eye group, dorsal view; C fovea, dorsal view; D cephalothorax, ventral view; E spinnerets, ventral view; F chelicera, prolateral view; G close-up of cheliceral furrow showing basomesal teeth; H leg I, prolateral view; I left leg III showing preening comb on metatarsus, ventral view; J same, leg IV. Scale bars = 5 mm (A), 1 mm (B–C, E–F, I–J), 2 mm (D, H), 0.2 mm (G).

Barychelidae Simon, 1889a

Tigidia Simon, 1892

Type species: Tigidia mauriciana Simon, 1892.

Diagnosis: For description and diagnosis of the genus see Mirza (2023).

Distribution: India, Madagascar, and Mauritius Islands (Mirza 2023; World Spider Catalog 2026).

Tigidia singhal sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Females of Tigidia singhal sp. nov. are similar to T. fasciata Mirza, 2023, T. jalgaonensis Mirza, 2023, and T. tangerina Mirza, 2023 in possessing elongate, widely separated spermathecae. However, they can be differentiated by a unique combination of characters: in T. singhal the spermathecal stalks arise from the middle of the spermathecae (v. arising from the apex in T. jalgaonensis, at bottom in T. tangerina, and ...

Etymology: The species is named in honor of Sandeep Singhal for his contributions to grassland conservation in India, including this work; the species was collected from semi-arid grassland habitats, highlighting the ecological importance of these ecosystems.

Rishikesh Tripathi, Prasad Bolde, Abi Tamim Vanak. 2026. A New Species of the Trapdoor Spider Genus Tigidia Simon, 1892 (Araneae: Barychelidae) from the Deccan Plateau, India. Arachnology. 20(5); 749-752. DOI: doi.org/10.13156/arac.2026.20.5.15 [8 July 2026]

 Researchgate.net/publication/408253064_A_new_species_of_Tigidia_from_the_Deccan_Plateau_India

[Ichthyology • 2026] Nanosphronemus gemma • A remarkable New Genus and Species of miniature osphronemid (Anabantoidei: Osphronemidae) from Vietnam

Nanosphronemus gemma

 Britz, Tan & Rüber, 2026

Raffles. Bull. Zool. 74; 

Abstract

 A new genus and species of miniature labyrinth fish of the family Osphronemidae, Nanosphronemus gemma, is described from Vietnam. It differs from all other genera of anabantoids by a unique dorsal- and anal-fin ray count, a unique colour pattern and a number of unique or highly unusual skeletal characters. Our molecular phylogenetic analysis indicates that Nanosphronemus is the sister group of the genus Trichopsis, the croaking gouramis. 

Key words. Anabantoidei, labyrinth fishes, miniaturisation, gourami

Nanosphronemus gemma, live colouration, not preserved, all ca. 16 mm SL in lateral view.
a, putative female above, note absence of red stripe in dorsal half; b, putative male in normal colouration, note presence of red stripe above and darker pigmentation below midlateral stripe; c, putative male in breeding colouration, note overall darker colouration of body and also fins, presence of bright red stripe and highly iridescent scales in mid-lateral stripe and below on head and body.

Nanosphronemus gemma, not preserved, all ca. 18 mm SL.
a, mature female with eggs; b, in breeding colouration and typical oblique courtship position, c, approaching bubble nest under plant leaf; d, adding air bubbles and embedding eggs into bubble nest.

Nanosphronemus, new genus  

Diagnosis. Nanosphronemus differs from all other genera in the suborder Anabantoidei by its unique count of XIX– XXI+2–3 dorsal-fin rays (vs. I–XVIII+ 4–14, rarely XIX in some specimens of Macropodus ocellatus) and XX– XXIV+4–5 anal-fin rays (vs. I–XVII+8–38, rarely XX–XXII in some specimens of Macropodus spp.), the presence (vs. absence) of a series of anteroventrally directed processes off the distal part of caudal haemal arches, Baudelot’s ligament ...

Etymology. The new genus name is derived from the Ancient Greek word, νάνος, meaning dwarf, combined with the name Osphronemus, the type genus of the family Osphronemidae, to which this new genus belongs. Gender: masculine. The name alludes to the tiny size of this new fish, which makes it one of the smallest anabantoids known to date.

Nanosphronemus gemma, new species 

 Suggested common name. Jewel Gourami.

Distribution. Unclear at present: reported from undisclosed area near Huế in Central Vietnam. 

Etymology. The species name is derived from the Latin word for jewel, ‘gemma’, alluding to the stunning colouration of sexually mature males. A noun in apposition.

 

Ralf BRITZ, Heok Hui TAN and Lukas RÜBER. 2026. Nanosphronemus gemma, A remarkable New Genus and Species of miniature osphronemid from Vietnam (Teleostei: Anabantoidei: Osphronemidae). Raffles. Bull. Zool. 74; 606–623.