[PaleoMammalogy • 2026] Yakamys sirindhornae • A giant Eocene ischyromyid from Southeast Asia reveals the early Evolution of Rodent Gigantism

Yakamys sirindhornae

 Chaimanee,  Marivaux, Millien, Yamee, Tian & Jaeger, 2026

 

ยักษ์คามิส สิรินธรเน  |  DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-76711-6 

Abstract

Gigantism has evolved repeatedly in rodents, but the best-documented examples are predominantly known from Neogene caviomorphs of South America. Evidence for gigantism among early rodents is scarce, limiting our understanding of its evolutionary history. Here we describe Yakamys sirindhornae gen. et sp. nov., a giant ischyromyid from the late Eocene of the Krabi Basin, southern Thailand. The new taxon is represented by a lower second molar and an associated lower incisor that combine exceptionally large dimensions with a distinctive suite of dental characters, including a moderately high crown, a short, isolated anteroconid, an incomplete metalophulid II, a bifid entolophid, and the absence of a mesoconid and hypoconulid. Incisor enamel exhibits a pauciserial Hunter–Schreger band pattern consistent with Ischyromyidae enamel microstructure. Body mass estimates derived from seven allometric equations range from 21.4 to 47.3 kg, with a mean of 31.6 kg and a median of 28.6 kg. We use approximately 30 kg as a rounded summary of the central tendency of these estimates, while acknowledging the substantial uncertainty associated with dental allometry. This estimate indicates that Yakamys had a substantially greater body mass than previously described Paleogene ischyromyids. Its discovery provides evidence for exceptionally large body size in Eocene ischyromyids of Southeast Asia. It demonstrates that substantial body-size increases had occurred in an early rodent lineage by the late Eocene, well before the major diversification of giant Neogene caviomorphs in South America. This finding further highlights the importance of the Southeast Asian fossil record for understanding the early diversification and morphological evolution of rodents.

 

Keywords: Rodentia, Ischyromyidae, Gigantism, Body mass, Incisor enamel microstructure, Krabi, Thailand

Systematic palaeontology

Class Mammalia Linnaeus, 175821.

Order Rodentia Bowdich, 182122.

Clade Ischyromyiformes Marivaux et al., 200423.

Family Ischyromyidae Alston, 187624.

Subfamily indet.

Yakamys gen. nov.

 

Etymology: The generic name is derived from the Thai yak, meaning “giant”, and the Greek mys, meaning “mouse” or “rat”. The species epithet honors HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for her longstanding support of scientific and paleontological research in Thailand.

Morphological and size comparisons of the lower molars of Yakamys sirindhornae gen. et sp. nov. from the late Eocene of the Krabi Basin, Thailand, with those of Paleogene ischyromyids of different sizes.
(A) Yakamys sirindhornae gen. et sp. nov., right m2 (TF 2942); (B) Asiomys dawsoni, left m1 (IVPP V 17800.8; reversed), left m2 (V 17800.11; reversed), and right m3 (IVPP V 17800.16)18; (C) Hulgana ertnia, right m1 − m3 (AMNH 26085)29; (D) Eosischyromys youngi, right p4 − m2 (V 11376)19; (E) Hartenbergeromys hautefeuillei, left m2 (UM2-138; reversed) and left m3 (SLP-43-PR-119; reversed)16;
 (F) Manitsha tanka, right p4 − m3 (AMNH 39081)13. Scale bar = 2 mm.

Yakamys sirindhornae gen. et sp. nov.

“หนูยักษ์สิรินธร”

Holotype: Right lower second molar (m2; TF 2942) (Fig. 2).

Diagnosis: Large-bodied ischyromyid characterized by a moderately high-crowned lower m2 measuring 11.56 mm in mesiodistal length and 11.27 mm in buccolingual width, with a subquadrate occlusal outline, a large incompletely enclosed trigonid, a short isolated anteroconid lacking an anterolophid, a short transversely oriented metalophulid II terminating before the metaconid, a strongly curved ectolophid lacking a mesoconid, a shallow posteriorly directed hypoflexid, a bifid entolophid, and a posterolophid lacking a hypoconulid.

Yaowalak Chaimanee, Laurent Marivaux, Virginie Millien, Chotima Yamee, Pannipa Tian and Jean-Jacques Jaeger. 2026. A giant Eocene ischyromyid from Southeast Asia reveals the early Evolution of Rodent Gigantism. Scientific Reports. 16: 34523. DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-76711-6  [04 November 2026] 

[Botany • 2026] Cycas ammonitia (Cycadaceae) • A New Species from the Ammonite-rich semi-deciduous forests in Mindoro Island, Philippines

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis, 

in Agoo, Madulid et Linis, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.7751/telopea22599

Abstract

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis (Cycadaceae, Section Cycas, Subsection Rumphiae K.D.Hill) is described from Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. The species grows in seasonally dry semi-deciduous forests on steep ridges over calcareous soils derived from Jurassic ammonite-rich deposits of the Mansalay Formation. Morphologically, Cycas ammonitia resembles Cycas edentata de Laub. and Cycas nitida K.D.Hill & A.Lindstr. in having smooth sclerotesta and a spongy endotesta in the seeds. However, it is distinguished by its very short microsporophyll and megasporophyll apical spines and its unique inland habitat on ammonite-bearing rocks, unlike the coastal or littoral distribution of its relatives. A key to the Philippine species of Cycas subsection Rumphiae is provided.

Keywords: Cycas ammonitia, Cycadaceae, new species, Mindoro Island, Philippines, Subsection Rumphiae

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis, sp. nov.
A. Habit. B. Bark. C. Leaf. D. Part of a leaf showing petioles. E. Cross-section of a leaflet. F. Microsporangiate strobilus. G. Microsporophylls. H. Megasporophylls. I. Terminal lamina of megasporophylls. J. Seeds (en = endotesta; ga = gametophyte; sa = sarcotesta; sc = sclerotesta).

A – E and H–J from Agoo and N Rag-op 26-008 (PNH, DLSUH), F– G from Agoo and N Rag-op 26-009 (PNH, DLSUH). 

Scale bar: A = 1 m., B = 2 cm., C = 1 m., D = 10 cm., E = 1 cm., F = 30 cm., G = 3 cm., H = 20 cm., I = 5 cm., J = 3 cm.

Cycas ammonitia Agoo, Madulid & Linis, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Similar to Cycas edentata and C. nitida in having smooth sclerotesta and a spongy endotesta of the seeds; but differ significantly by its very short microsporophyll apical spine (0.1–0.5 cm long) and megasporophyll apical spine (0.5–0.7 cm long) vs microsporophyll apical spine at least 0.9 cm long and megasporophyll apical spine 1.5–4 cm long in Cycas edentata and Cycas nitida and its unique habitat in a semi-deciduous forest near creeks over ammonite-bearing deposits.

Etymology: The specific epithet ammonitia refers to the ammonite fossil deposits found within the Mansalay Formation that are dated as Middle to Late Jurassic (Aurelio et al. 2012; Andal et al. 1968). The unique calcareous geological substrate, to which this species is restricted, highlights the intimate link between the plant’s edaphic niche and its speciation.

 Esperanza Maribel G. Agoo, Domingo A. Madulid and Virgilio Cutibar Linis. 2026. Cycas ammonitia (Cycadaceae), A New Species from the Ammonite-rich semi-deciduous forests in Mindoro Island, Philippines. Telopea. 30; 187–194. DOI: doi.org/10.7751/telopea22599 [2026-09-08]

[Botany • 2026] Oxygyne myanmarensis (Thismiaceae) • A New Species from Myanmar: Bridging the disjunct distribution between Africa and Japan

 

Oxygyne myanmarensis  Nob.Tanaka & Paing,

in Tanaka, Paing et Aung, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.782.3.8

Abstract

A new species of Oxygyne (Thismiaceae), O. myanmarensis Nob.Tanaka & Paing, is described from Myanmar. The genus Oxygyne was previously known only from southern Japan and central Africa, exhibiting a striking disjunct distribution. This discovery is also the first to demonstrate that the genus also occurs in Southeast Asia, bridging the gap between these two regions.

Monocots, Oxygyne myanmarensis, Thismiaceae, Myanmar, mycoheterotrophic plants

Oxygyne myanmarensis
A. Natural habitat. B. Flower viewed from above. C. Habit. D. a: Flower with part of the perianth tube removed to expose the androecium. b: Stamen. c: Pistil. E. Ovary, longitudinal (a) and transverse (b) sections to show placentation.

Scale bars: 1 cm (C, D-a), 1 mm (D-b, c, E).

Oxygyne myanmarensis Nob.Tanaka & Paing, sp. nov. 

 Type:—MYANMAR. Kayin State: Paung Daw Oo Mountain, ...

 Oxygyne myanmarensis is like O. shinzatoi in having a campanulate perianth tube, long filiform perianth lobes and filaments with calluslike clusters but differs by its brownish orange perianth tube, stigma with a triangled head prolonged into an erect conical projection and papillate anther. 

NOBUYUKI TANAKA, CHIT SOE PAING and MU MU AUNG. 2026. A New Species, Oxygyne myanmarensis (Thismiaceae), from Myanmar: Bridging the disjunct distribution between Africa and Japan.  Phytotaxa. 782(3);297-300. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.782.3.8 [2026-10-30]

[Herpetology • 2026] Diploderma gulaense • A New Species of the Genus Diploderma (Reptilia: Agamidae) from Zayü County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China

 

Diploderma gulaense Cai, Yao, Wu & Guo, 

in Cai, Liu, Budian, Yao, Wu, Jiang, Luo et Guo, 2026.

古拉攀蜥  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1296.198381

 

Abstract

A new species of the agamid genus Diploderma Hallowell, 1861 is described from Gula Township, Zayü County, Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet), China, based on integrated morphological and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial ND2 genes reveal that the new species Diploderma gulaense Cai, Yao, Wu & Guo, sp. nov. forms a well-supported clade with D. laeviventre, D. yangi, and D. slowinskii, endemic to the Nu River valley. It is sister to D. laeviventre but differs from it and other congeners by a combination of morphological characteristics: moderate body size (SVL 53.1–63.4 mm in males, 54.8–70.2 mm in females); relatively long tail (TAL/SVL 2.07–2.38 in males, 1.90–2.26 in females); tympanum concealed; ventral body scales strongly keeled; transverse gular fold present; cyan gular spot in both sexes; pale cyan dorsolateral stripes in males; and tongue pale flesh colored. The new species is currently known only from the Ranbuqu valley, a dry-warm valley along a tributary of the middle Nu River, at elevations between 2,332 and 3,300 m. Its restricted distribution and ongoing habitat degradation suggest a preliminary IUCN assessment of Vulnerable (VU). The discovery of Diploderma gulaense Cai, Yao, Wu & Guo, sp. nov. further highlights the role of river-valley systems in driving allopatric speciation within the genus and underscores the underestimated diversity of Diploderma in the Hengduan Mountains.

Key words: Diploderma gulaense sp. nov., dry valley, geographical isolation, Hengduan mountains, Mountain Lizard, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Salween River

Live coloration of Diploderma gulaense sp. nov. (male, CIB-CB23CY17, photographed while healthy).
A. Lateral view of body; B. Dorsal view; C. Ventral view; D. Lateral view of head; E. Oral cavity.

Diploderma gulaense Cai, Yao, Wu & Guo, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Diploderma gulaense sp. nov. can be diagnosed from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characteristics: (1) adult body size moderate, SVL 53.1–63.4 mm in males (n = 4), 54.8–70.2 mm in females (n = 7); (2) tail relatively long, TAL/SVL 2.07–2.38 (mean 2.18) in males, 1.90–2.26 (mean 2.02) in females; (3) head moderately depressed, HW/HL 0.65–0.75 in males, 0.65–0.74 in females; (4) foreleg length moderate, FLL/SVL 0.46–0.48 in males, 0.43–0.50 in females; (5) hindleg length relatively short, HLL/SVL 0.74–0.80 in males, 0.66–0.77 in females; tympanum concealed by small scales; (6) middorsal crest scales ....

Etymology. The Latin specific epithet gulaense is derived from the Gula Township, where the new species was discovered. The genus Diploderma is Greek neuter, and the suffix -ense of this new species name is the Latin neuter combinatorial suffix denoting ‘pertaining to’ or ‘originating in’. 

And we suggest Gula Mountain Lizard as its English common name and 古拉攀蜥 (Chinese phonetic alphabet: gǔ lā pān xī) as its Chinese common name.

 Bo Cai, Fengjing Liu, Ayimo Budian, Zhongyi Yao, Boyang Wu, Jianping Jiang, Xiaobo Luo and Keji Guo. 2026. A New Species of the Genus Diploderma (Reptilia, Squamata, Agamidae) from Zayü County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China.  ZooKeys. 1296: 209-230. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1296.198381 [04 Nov 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Rana hainan • A New Species of Rana (Anura: Ranidae) from Hainan, Southern China

 

 Rana hainan Wang, Qiu, Song, Qi, Wang, Li & Wang,

in H.-T. Wang, Huang, Liao, Qiu, Song, Qi, Ding, Zhuo, W. Wang, Wu, B. Wang, Y.-Y. Wang, Li et J.-C. Wang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1296.211503 

Abstract

A new species of the genus Rana is described from Hainan Island, southern China, based on morphological and molecular evidence. During herpetological surveys conducted in Wanning City and Mt. Diaoluo, Hainan Province, a series of Rana specimens assignable to the R. johnsi group were collected from montane tropical rainforest habitats. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial 16S, COI, and cyt b sequences recovered the Hainan population as a distinct and well-supported lineage within the R. johnsi group. Morphometric analyses, including PCA, DAPC, and PERMANOVA, further demonstrated significant differentiation between the Hainan population and its congeners. The new species, Rana hainan Wang, Qiu, Song, Qi, Wang, Li & Wang, sp. nov., is characterized by a medium body size, head longer than wide, a distinct triangular black patch on the temporal region, straight and narrow dorsolateral folds, toe tips with connected lateroventral grooves, absence of tarsal folds, and breeding males possessing a continuous grayish-white nuptial pad on finger I. Historical records of R. varians, R. nigrotympanica, and R. johnsi from Hainan are reviewed. Records from Mt. Diaoluo are reassigned to the new species, whereas records from other localities are conservatively treated as Rana cf. johnsi pending further investigation.

Key words: Hainan Island, historical records, integrative taxonomy, molecular phylogeny, Rana johnsi group

The female paratypes of  Rana hainan sp. nov. in life.
A. SYS a009526; B. SYS a009527 (Field NO. SYNU 900774);
1. Dorsolateral view; 2. Ventral view; 3. Palmar surface of right hand; 4. Plantar surface of right foot.

Photos by Hao-Tian Wang and Xian-Chun Qiu.

Rana hainan Wang, Qiu, Song, Qi, Wang, Li & Wang, sp. nov.

 

Chresonymy. Rana nigrotympanica – Wang et al. (2007).

Rana johnsi – Shi et al. (2011, in part).

Diagnosis. Rana hainan sp. nov. is distinguished by the following morphological characteristics: (1) body medium-sized, SVL 44.4–45.4 (44.9 ± 0.5, n = 3) mm in adult males, 45.4–57.5 (51.2 ± 4.2, n = 9) mm in adult females; (2) head length significantly larger than head width; (3) a distinct triangular black patch on the temporal region; (4) dorsolateral fold distinct and thin, extending straight from posterior margin of upper eyelid to above groin; (5) internarial distances larger than interorbital distances; (6) eyes relatively small; (7) tympanum diameter significantly smaller than eye diameter; (8) fingers without lateroventral grooves, unwebbed, relative finger lengths II < I < IV < III; (9) presence of supernumerary tubercles below the bases of each finger, presence of three separated metacarpal tubercles; (10) toe tips slightly expanded into small discs, lateroventral grooves present on all toe tips, connected at the anterior margin, toes webbing formula: I 0–1/2 II 0–1/2 III 1- – 1/2 IV 1- – 0 V, relative toe lengths I < II < III < V < IV; (11) tibio-tarsal articulation reaching forward beyond tip of snout; (12) heels overlapping; (13) dorsal skin smooth, flanks smooth with few granules; (14) presence of vocal sacs in males; (15) breeding males possessing a grayish-white nuptial pad forming a continuous patch on finger I, extending from the tip of the finger to the posterior margin of the inner metacarpal tubercle, and densely covered with tiny hoary nuptial spines.

Rana hainan sp. nov.
A. Habitat in Shangxi Provincial Nature Reserve; B. Microhabitat in Shangxi Provincial Nature Reserve;
C. Female Paratype SYS a009746 from Mt. Diaoluo in its natural habitat.

Photos by Hao-Tian Wang and Chen-Xi Liao.

 Hao-Tian Wang, Ming-Hong Huang, Chen-Xi Liao, Xian-Chun Qiu, Han-Ming Song, Shuo Qi, Da-Er Ding, Shang-Biao Zhuo, Wei Wang, Jun Wu, Bin Wang, Ying-Yong Wang, Pi-Peng Li and Ji-Chao Wang. 2026. A New Species of Rana (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae) from Hainan, Southern China. ZooKeys. 1296: 185-208. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1296.211503  [04-11-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Cycas mindorensis (Cycadaceae) • A New Species from Mindoro Island, Philippines, and its biogeographic significance within section Wadeae

Cycas mindorensis Agoo, Madulid & Linis,

in Agoo, Madulid et Linis,. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.04

Abstract 

A new species, Cycas mindorensis Agoo, Madulid & Linis sp. nov., is described from Mindoro Island, Philippines. It belongs to section Wadeae based on its seeds with ribbed sclerotesta and narrowly triangular, deeply pectinate megasporophyll lamina, characteristics shared with other members of this clade. It is distinguished from related species (C. aenigma, C. curranii, C. saxatilis, and C. wadei) by its larger seeds (50–60 mm in length, the largest in the section) bearing 13–21 sharp-edged longitudinal ribs on the sclerotesta and a narrowly triangular, deeply pectinate megasporophyll lamina with 7–9 fine lateral spines per side. A key to species in section Wadeae based on seed characters is provided, with C. mindorensis uniquely diagnosed by its broadly ellipsoid seeds with deeply fluted, sharp-edged longitudinal ribs. The species is restricted to calcareous soils within the Jurassic Mansalay Formation in Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro. This discovery extends the known range of section Wadeae eastward from Palawan to Mindoro. The population is extremely small, highly localised, and threatened by agricultural expansion and slash-and-burn farming. Consequently, the species is assessed as Critically Endangered. The finding highlights the evolutionary importance of microcontinental drift and isolated limestone habitats in shaping Philippine cycad diversity and underscores the urgent need for targeted conservation measures. 

Keywords: Critically endangered species, Cycas mindorensis, Palawan Ark hypothesis, Palawan and Mindoro biogeographic zones, Section Wadeae 

Cycas mindorensis.
a. Habit. b. Leaf. c. Median portion of a leaf, showing the leaflets. d. Cross-section of a leaflet. e. Cataphylls. f. Megasporophyll lamina (adaxial view). g. Seed (sclerotesta with deeply fluted and sharp-edged ) (Linis & Gagwis 26-001, PNH).

Cycas mindorensis Agoo, Madulid & Linis, sp. nov. 

 Cycas mindorensis resembles C. wadei in having a narrowly triangular, deeply pectinate megasporophyll lamina but differs by possessing larger seeds, 5–6 × 4.8–5.2 cm (length × width), with numerous (13– 21), deeply fluted and sharp-edged longitudinal ribs on the sclerotesta (vs. only 8 smooth, slightly fluted ribs in C. wadei). It is also similar to C. curranii, which shares numerous longitudinal ribs on the seeds, but C. mindorensis is distinguished by its deeply pectinate megasporophyll lamina (vs. broadly triangular lamina with very short lateral spines in C. curranii). 

 Type: Linis & Gagwis 26-001 (holo PNH; iso DLSUH), Philippines, Oriental Mindoro Province, Mindoro Mountain Range, Bongabong, Barangay Hagan, Sitio Gomatos, 190 m a.s.l., 11 April 2026.

Etymology — The specific epithet refers to Mindoro Island, where the species is endemic.

E.M.G. Agoo, D.A. Madulid and V.C. Linis. 2026. Cycas mindorensis (Cycadaceae), A New Species from Mindoro Island, Philippines, and its biogeographic significance within section Wadeae. Blumea. 70(3): 287–294. DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.04 [30 October 2026]

[Arachnida • 2025] Troglorhopalurus iuiu • Taxonomy and Distribution of the Cave-Dwelling Scorpions Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae), with the Description of a New Cave-Restricted Species

Habitus of live specimens of Troglorhopalurus,
including T. translucidus (A), T. lacrau (B–E), and T. iuiu n. sp. (F–H).
(A) Adult female from Gruta Rio dos Pombos cave, Andaraí;
(B) adult female from Lapa do Bode, Itaeté; (C) adult female from Gruta da Mangabeira cave, Ituaçu; (D) juvenile from Gruta Moreno cave, Nova Redenção; (E) juvenile from Gruta do Calixto, Iramaia;
Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. (F) adult female from Gruta do Sepultamento, Iuiú; (G) juvenile from Lapa do Baixão cave, Iuiú; (H) juvenile from Toca Fria cave, Iuiú. 

 Carvalho, Silva, de Souza & Ferreira, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda3020006 

Photos: L.S. Carvalho (A,B), R.L. Ferreira (C–H).

Abstract

The genus Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) is endemic to northeastern Brazil and comprises cave-dwelling species with limited distributions. Based on newly collected specimens, this study provides a description of a new cave-dwelling Troglorhopalurus species and the first detailed description of the male hemispermatophore of the genus. Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. is diagnosed based on morphometric characters, distinct carapace granulation, and differences in the pedipalps and metasomal carinae and peg sensillae shape. The hemispermatophore of Troglorhopalurus is like other Centruroidinae species, with internal, external, and basal lobes. Additionally, we discuss the distribution and conservation status of Troglorhopalurus species. Troglorhopalurus lacrau distribution range is extended based on additional epigean and hypogean records. This species may be reassessed from data deficient to least concern. Based on the limited localities and declining habitat quality, we propose that T. iuiu n. sp. be considered endangered. This research underscores the importance of further sampling to explore species-specific variations and promote conservation efforts for these ecologically specialized scorpions.

Keywords: Arachnida; Centruroidinae; taxonomy; hemispermatophore; conservation status

Habitus of live specimens of Troglorhopalurus, including T. translucidus (A), T. lacrau (B–E), and T. iuiu n. sp. (F–H).
(A) Adult female from Gruta Rio dos Pombos cave, Andaraí; (B) adult female from Lapa do Bode, Itaeté; (C) adult female from Gruta da Mangabeira cave, Ituaçu; (D) juvenile from Gruta Moreno cave, Nova Redenção; (E) juvenile from Gruta do Calixto, Iramaia; (F) adult female from Gruta do Sepultamento, Iuiú; (G) juvenile from Lapa do Baixão cave, Iuiú; (H) juvenile from Toca Fria cave, Iuiú.

 Photos: L.S. Carvalho (A,B), R.L. Ferreira (C–H).

Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. 

Diagnosis. Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. is most similar to T. lacrau. Both species share a light-brownish coloration in adult specimens, lack remarkably elongated pedipalps and metasoma segments, and have a rhomboid subaculear tubercle, distinguishing them from T. translucidus (Figure 1A). In T. translucidus, adults have a black base coloration, elongated pedipalps and metasomal segments, and spinoid subaculear tubercle (Figure 1A). Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. differs from T. lacrau by the following characteristics: (1) The carapace of T. iuiu n. sp. is mostly covered by fine granules (e.g., in the area between the anterior median and the anterior lateral carinae) and vestigial carinae (e.g., anterior central submedian, posterior central submedian, and posterior submedian carinae; Figure 2C,D), but coarse granules and well-marked carinae are found in ...

Leonardo Sousa Carvalho, Maria Idalete Lopes Silva, Priscila Emanuela de Souza and Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira. 2026. Taxonomy and Distribution of the Cave-Dwelling Scorpions Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones, Buthidae), with the Description of a New Cave-Restricted Species. Arthropoda. 3(2), 6. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda3020006 [7 April 2025]

[Entomology • 2026] Brachyscleroma chadchawanae, B. chavanichae, B. malaivijitnondae, B. suriyai, ... • Taxonomic Review of Brachyscleroma Cushman, 1940 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) including Eight New Species from India and Thailand

 

Brachyscleroma chavanichae; B. malaivijitnondae

in Ranjith, Quicke et Butcher, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.1 

  facebook.com/IIECECU

Abstract 

The sisyrostoline genus Brachyscleroma Cushman is reviewed from India and Thailand with the description of eight new species, one from India (B. suriyai sp. nov.) and seven from Thailand (B. chadchawanae sp. nov., B. chavanichae sp. nov., B. emmaolsenae sp. nov., B. livalvernae sp. nov., B. malaivijitnondae sp. nov., B. voraveehoveniae sp. nov. and B. vangnaiae sp. nov.). We report the genus from Thailand for the first time. The new species are fully described and illustrated photographically. A taxonomic key is provided for the extant species of the genus.

Hymenoptera, Sisyrostolinae, Oriental region, taxonomic key, Southeast Asia

Brachyscleroma chadchawanae sp. nov.

Brachyscleroma chavanichae sp. nov.

seven from Thailand: 

Brachyscleroma chadchawanae sp. nov., B. chavanichae sp. nov., B. emmaolsenae sp. nov., B. livalvernae sp. nov., B. malaivijitnondae sp. nov., B. voraveehoveniae sp. nov. and B. vangnaiae sp. nov.

Brachyscleroma malaivijitnondae sp. nov.

A.P. RANJITH, Donald L.J. QUICKE and Buntika A. BUTCHER. 2026. Taxonomic Review of Brachyscleroma Cushman, 1940 (Hymenoptera; Ichneumonidae) including Eight New Species from India and Thailand.  Zootaxa. 5862(2); 201-231. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5862.2.1 [2026-08-05]

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[Botany • 2026] Primula panzhouensis (Primulaceae) • Phylogeny and Comparative chloroplast Genomics reveal A rare New short-styled homostylous Species from southwestern China

 

Primula panzhouensis Z.K.Wu,   

in Ye, Liu, Guo, Deng, Zhou et Wu, 2026. 

盘州报春  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2026.1934280

Abstract

Based on comparative chloroplast genomes (cp genomes) and phylogenetic analyses integrated with morphological evidence, this study investigated the taxonomic status and phylogenetic relationships of an extremely rare short-styled homostylous lineage of Primula from southwestern China, providing new molecular insights into the delimitation of this complex group. Complete cp genomes were sequenced and comparatively analyzed for one putative new taxon, Primula panzhouensis, and 15 representative samples within Sect. Petiolares from southwestern China. The cp genome characteristics, simple sequence repeat (SSR) patterns, codon usage bias, inverted repeat (IR) boundary variations, and nucleotide diversity patterns were systematically evaluated. Maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) analyses were conducted based on complete cp genome sequences, and an integrative taxonomic assessment was performed by combining cp genomic evidence with morphological comparisons. All 16 cp genomes exhibited a typical quadripartite structure, with genome sizes ranging from 151,076 to 153,420 bp. The overall cp genome structure and gene composition were highly conserved, although interspecific variations were detected in IR boundary regions, SSR distributions, and highly variable regions, including trnH-psbA and ycf1. The sequenced cp genome of P. panzhouensis exhibited several distinctive structural features and sequence variation patterns compared with closely related taxa. ML and BI analyses consistently recovered P. panzhouensis as a distinct cp lineage within Sect. Petiolares with strong support. Morphological comparisons further demonstrated that P. panzhouensis possesses the short-styled homostyly trait and can be distinguished from related taxa by differences in floral style structure, corolla morphology, scape length, and leaf characteristics. Integrating cp genomic evidence, phylogenetic relationships, and morphological traits, our results support the recognition of P. panzhouensis as a distinct taxonomic entity, which is herein described as a new species, Primula panzhouensis Z.K.Wu, sp. nov. This study demonstrates that comparative cp genomics integrated with phylogenetic analyses can effectively assist in resolving lineage relationships and taxonomic boundaries in complex groups of Primula. It also identifies an extremely rare short-styled homostylous species, providing valuable material for further investigating the evolution of floral diversity and its potential evolutionary significance in Primula.

Keywords: chloroplast genomics, molecular phylogeny, morphological taxonomy, Primula panzhouensis, Primula sect. Petiolares, short-styled homostylous species

Primula panzhouensis Z.K.Wu, sp. nov.

 Diagnosis: The new species is morphologically similar to P. esquirolii, P. bergenioides, and P. hookeri, and all four species exhibit morphological characteristics consistent with the diagnostic features of Sect. Petiolares. It differs from P. esquirolii primarily in that the latter produces few or no new leaves during the flowering period, has a relatively long corolla tube, and bears extremely shortened scapes that are usually less than 1 cm in height or nearly absent. In addition, P. esquirolii is homostylous with long-style flowers, whereas the new species possesses a short corolla tube, well-developed scapes, and produces numerous new leaves during anthesis. Compared with the heterostylous P. bergenioides, the new species is readily ...

  Etymology: The specific epithet of the new species is taken from the Chinese Pinyin “Panzhou”, the name of the county in western Guizhou, China, where the type specimen was collected (Figure 15).

 Vernacular name: Chinese mandarin: pán zhōu bào chūn (盘州报春).

 

Qing-qing Ye, Yong-lin Liu, Ying Guo, Qiang Deng, Wei Zhou and Zhi-kun Wu. 2026. Phylogeny and Comparative chloroplast Genomics reveal A rare New short-styled homostylous Species of Primula (Primulaceae) from southwestern China. Front. Plant Sci. 17:1934280. DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2026.1934280  [29 September 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Cynorkis hasinai (Orchidaceae: Orchidioideae: Habenariinae) • A New Species from Madagascar

Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, 

in Hervouet et Ranaivo, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a14

 

 Abstract  

A new species of Orchidaceae, Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov., discovered in the north of Madagascar, is described and assigned to section Parviflorae. It has a very distinctive uppermost 5-lobed lip and the closest species is Cynorkis schlechteri H.Perrier.

KEYWORDS: Madagascar, Cynorkis, new species, Madagascar, Cynorkis, new species

Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov. Montagne d'Ambre National Park,
rachis, 4 April 2024.  

 front view of lip, 29 February 2020. 

side view of ovary and flower, 29 February 2020.

Photograph by Jean-Michel Hervouet. Scale bar: 5 mm.

Family Orchidaceae Juss.

Sub-family Orchidoideae A.A. Eaton

Tribe Orchideae (Dressler & Dodson) Verm.

Subtribe Habenariinae sensu Ngugi et al. 2020

Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. — This species belongs to the group of section Parviflorae species with inversed flowers. It differs from all other species by its 5-lobed lip with two very prominent upward 5 mm long intermediate lobes. Four other species in the section have inversed flowers and 5-lobed lip: Cynorkis quinqueloba H.Perrier ex Hermans, has intermediate lobes at least half the size of the middle lobe; Cynorkis quinquepartita has basal lobes bigger than the intermediate lobes but a little smaller than the middle one; Cynorkis verrucosa Bosser has much smaller intermediate lobes and the zone between the two basal lobes is verrucose. Cynorkis schlechteri H.Perrier is the closest species, with the intermediate lobes also the most prominent, but it is a much smaller plant (maximum 25 cm versus 42 cm for C. hasinai sp. nov.), with smaller flowers, the intermediate lobes being 3 mm long at most, versus 5 mm for C. hasinai sp. nov. The lip colour is light pink and white (versus dark red and white for C. hasinai sp. nov.). The flowering seasons are different (August-September for C. schlechteri, March-April for C. hasinai sp. nov.). The altitudes are different (0-800 m for C. schlechteri versus around 1200 m for C. hasinai sp. nov.).

Etymology. — The species is dedicated to Rakotobe Hasimbola Joelina, known as Hasina. He has been since 2017 our guide, driver and dear friend. He is an ardent orchid enthusiast and an outstanding prospector with a very keen eye. We owe him a lot of discoveries and he was able, with his son Landry in February 2020, after extensively scouting the place, to find one plant in flower among many others which were only in bud.

Liparis chantaliae Hermans & Hervouet, side by side with Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov.
Montagne d'Ambre National Park, 4 April 2024.

Photograph by Jean-Michel Hervouet.

Jean-Michel Hervouet and Jaona Ranaivo. 2026. Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov. (Orchidaceae, Orchidioideae, Habenariinae), A New Species from Madagascar [une nouvelle espèce de Madagascar]. Adansonia. 48(14), 151-158. DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a14 (15 July 2026) 

Une nouvelle espèce d'Orchidaceae, Cynorkis hasinai Hervouet & Ranaivo, sp. nov. découverte dans le nord de Madagascar est décrite et attribuée à la section Parviflorae. Elle possède un remarquable labelle supère pentalobé. L'espèce la plus proche est Cynorkis schlechteri H.Perrier.

[Botany • 2026] Dombeya boulletiana (sect. Dombeyastrum; Malvaceae) • A New Species from Mayotte and A Synopsis of Dombeya Cav. (Malvaceae) from the Comoros

 

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, 

in Le Péchon, Dimassi et Pignal, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a17 

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M. Pignal, sp. nov., is described from Mayotte. The species is assigned to Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum Planch. It is currently known from a single locality on Mlima Choungui. Morphologically, it is close to D. rottleroides Baill., although it is placed, in a provisional phylogenetic framework, alongside D. cacuminum Hochr. An identification key to the species of Mayotte and the Comoros is provided in French and English. The conservation status of the species occurring in Mayotte and the Comoros is assessed following IUCN criteria. Lectotypifications are provided for D. cacuminum Hochr., D. polyphylla K.Schum., D. rosacea Arènes, D. rottleroides Baill. and D. viburniflora Bojer.

KEYWORDS: MALVACEAE, Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum, Planchon Mayotte, Comoros Archipelago, IUCN Redlist status, lectotypifications, new species

Famille Malvaceae Juss.

Sous-famille Dombeyoideae Beilsch.

Genre Dombeya Cav.

Section Dombeyastrum Planchon

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov. (A. Dimassi 171):
A, rameau feuillé; B, limbe face adaxiale et détail face abaxiale; C, rameau fleuri; D, inflorescence jeune; E, fleur; F, sépale; G, pétale; H, androcée et gynécée; I, tube staminal déroulé, face extérieure; J, pistil.

Échelles: A-C, 10 mm; D-H, 2 mm. Dessin: Ludivine Longou.

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov. (A. Dimassi 171):
A, plante dans son milieu; B, jeune pousse; C, feuille, limbe face adaxiale; D, feuille, limbe face abaxiale; E, détail pétiole et stipules; F, pétiole apex, zone pileuse; G, pétiole partie médiane glabre; H, stipules subulées, détail; I, inflorescence en boutons; J, inflorescence épanouie; K, calice détail (sur inflorescence en bouton); L, fleur à l'anthèse.

Photos: A. Dimassi.

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. — D. rottleroidi affinis, sed habitu fruticoso (vs arboreo), lamina late ovata, tricuspidataque (vs ovata acuminataque), serrulata margine (vs integra ad sinuata), lamina facie abaxiali ad basin nervorum indumento instructa (vs glabra), cyma leviter contracta (vs laxa), c. 10 cm longa, (2-) 3-6 (-14)-flora (vs > 20 cm longa, multiflora), bracteis persistentibus, ovatis (vs caducis, anguste triangularibus), petalis albido-roseis, c. 10 × 10 mm (vs roseis vel rubris, 11-15 × 9-15 mm), praecipue differt.

Étymologie. — Cette espèce est dédiée à Vincent Boullet (1956-2024), botaniste et phytosociologue reconnu qui a très largement contribué à la connaissance de la flore et des habitats des territoires de l'Océan Indien (Muller et al. 2024).

 

Timothée Le Péchon, Abassi Dimassi and Marc Pignal. 2026. Une espèce nouvelle de Mayotte et un synopsis des Dombeya Cav. (Malvaceae) dans l'archipel des Comores [A New Species from Mayotte and A Synopsis of Dombeya Cav. (Malvaceae) from the Comoros]. Adansonia. 48(17); 185-196. DOI: doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a17 (10 September 2026) 

 

Dombeya boulletiana Le Péchon, Dimassi & M.Pignal, sp. nov. est décrite de Mayotte. L'espèce appartient à Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum Planchon. Elle n'est actuellement connue que d'un seul site, situé au Mlima Choungui. Elle se rapproche morphologiquement de D. rottleroides Baillon, bien qu'elle se place dans une phylogénie provisoire aux côtés de D. cacuminum Hochr. Une clé d'identification des espèces de Mayotte et des Comores est donnée en français et en anglais. Le statut de conservation selon l'UICN est évalué pour les espèces présentes à Mayotte et aux Comores. Des lectotypifications sont également fournies pour D. cacuminum Hochr., D. polyphylla K.Schum., D. rosacea Arènes, D. rottleroides Baill. et D. viburniflora Bojer.

MALVACEAE, Dombeya sect. Dombeyastrum, Planchon, Mayotte, archipel des Comores, statut liste rouge UICN, lectotypifications, espèce nouvelle