[Botany • 2024] Orophea chalermprakiat (Annonaceae: Malmeoideae) • A New Species from Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, southern Thailand

 Orophea chalermprakiat Damth., Chanthamrong & Chaowasku, 

in Damthongdee, Chanthamrong, Promsiri, Tongsang, Jaisamut, Wiya, Sinbumroong et Chaowasku, 2024.  

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.658.3.8

Orophea Blume (1825: 18) (Annonaceae) consists of about 62 species distributed collectively from the Indian subcontinent through mainland Southeast Asia and southern China to the Southeast Asian islands (not further to the east than the Moluccas; Kessler 1988). It is a member of Miliuseae, the largest tribe of Malmeoideae (Chatrou et al. 2012). The genus is primarily characterised by the presence of (1) dissimilar petal whorls, the inner petals being usually longer, clawed toward the base and usually connivent at anthesis, (2) reduced number of stamens and carpels per flower and (3) loosely arranged stamens with a minute connective prolongation not covering the thecae (Damthongdee et al. 2021). Furthermore, most species of Orophea possess varying shapes of glands inside the inner petals (Kessler 1988, Leonardía & Kessler 2001). The genus has been subdivided into two subgenera: Orophea and Sphaerocarpon Kessler (1988: 13). Members of O. subg. Orophea possess generally percurrent tertiary leaf venation and ellipsoid-cylindrical to cylindrical monocarps (± moniliform when multi-seeded), whereas members of O. subg. Sphaerocarpon exhibit generally reticulate tertiary leaf venation and globose (rarely shortly oblongoid) monocarps (Damthongdee et al. 2021). In Thailand, there are eight species, including the recently described O. sichaikhanii Damthongdee, Aongyong & Chaowasku (2021: 308). In this study, we describe a new species of O. subg. Sphaerocarpon from Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, Satun Province, southern Thailand. The indumentum terminology of Hewson (1988) was used. Floral organs were studied and measured from material in spirit.

  Holotype of Orophea chalermprakiat (Chaowasku 219, CMUB).

 Orophea chalermprakiat.
 A. Inflorescence and flower. B. Close-up of (A) in upright position, showing stamens surrounding carpels. C. Inner petal, adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) sides. D. Outer petal, adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) sides. E. Flower with petals and stamens removed, showing adaxial side of sepals and carpels on torus. F. Same as (E) but in bottom view, showing abaxial side of sepals. G. Infructescence and submature monocarps. H. Seed.

 A–F from Chaowasku 219 (CMUB), G–H from Chaowasku 223 (CMUB). C–F from spirit material. Photographs by A. Damthongdee (A, G).

Orophea chalermprakiat Damth., Chanthamrong & Chaowasku, sp. nov. 

 Type:—THAILAND. Satun Prov.: Talu Cave, La-ngu Distr., 21 Nov 2020, fl. & fr., Chaowasku 219 (holotype: CMUB003998801; isotypes: BK, CMUB, PBM, QBG). 

The new species is morphologically most like O. sichaikhanii but differs from it by having pilose-villous young twigs and petioles, shorter petioles, rounded to subcordate (rarely obtuse) leaf bases, shorter flowering pedicels, longer inner petal claws, lower number of carpels per flower and longer monocarp stipes (Table 1).

...

Distribution:—Endemic to Satun Province, southern Thailand. 

Habitat and phenology:—Evergreen forests in a limestone sink, ca. 25 m. Flowering and fruiting material collected in November.

Etymology:—Derived from a Thai royal term meaning “honour”, the specific epithet honours King Rama X of Thailand [Phra Wachiraklao Chao Yu Hua] on the auspicious occasion of his 72nd (6th cycle) birthday anniversary (28 July 2024). 

Anissara Damthongdee, Kithisak Chanthamrong, Suwannee Promsiri, Banchong Tongsang, Thani Jaisamut, Chattida Wiya, Aroon Sinbumroong and Tanawat Chaowasku. 2024. Orophea chalermprakiat (Annonaceae; Malmeoideae), A New Species from southern Thailand.  Phytotaxa. 658(3); 296-300. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.658.3.8

[Botany • 2024] Ruellia kalungae (Acanthaceae: Ruellieae) • A New Species from Goiás state, Brazil

Ruellia kalungae  G.V.R.Mendonça & M.J.Silva, 

in Mendonça et da Silva, 2024.

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.635.1.6 

facebook.com/ogutiGustavo

 

Abstract

Taxonomic studies about Ruellia from Goiás state, Brazil, ongoing, revealed a new species, R. kalungae, that it is here described and illustrated, and systematically positioned. The novel species is similar to Ruellia nitens in the subshubby erect habit, leaves light green and corolla infundibuliform. However, it differs from the latter by several characters related specially to the shapes and indument of the leaves, bracts and capsules, inflorescence type, aspect and size of the calyx lacinia, presence de bracteoles, and number and shape of the seeds.

Cerrado, Conservation, Cerradicola, taxonomy, Eudicots

Ruellia kalungae

 

Gustavo Vieira Rodrigues Mendonça and Marcos José da Silva. 2024. A New Species of Ruellia L. (Ruellieae, Acanthaceae) from Goiás state, Brazil.  Phytotaxa. 635(1); 98-104. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.635.1.6

 facebook.com/ogutiGustavo/posts/10231787775102387

 

[Botany • 2024] Eugenia guapiassuana (Myrtaceae) • A remarkable New tree Species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

 Eugenia guapiassuana  T.Fern., M.T.C.Lacerda & J.M.A.Braga, 

 in Fernandes, Prieto, Lacerda, Bünger et Braga, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1007/s12225-023-10159-z 

 x.com/KewBulletin

Summary

This study proposes a new species of Eugenia sect. Phyllocalyx from Atlantic Forest remnants in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. The new taxon, Eugenia guapiassuana, is proposed based on literature survey, examination of herbarium material and field work. We herein provide a morphological description, including comments on fruit taste, along with information on distribution, habitat, phenology, vernacular name, taxonomy and conservation status. Figures showing fresh and dry material and a map of the occurrence records are also presented. Eugenia guapiassuana is morphologically similar to E. involucrata and E. superba, and these species are contrasted in the discussion. Following an assessment, the conservation status of Eugenia guapiassuana is provisionally determined as Critically Endangered [CR B2ab(iii)].

Key Words: Cereja-de-guapiaçu, Eugenia sect. Phyllocalyx, fruit tree, Reserva Ecológica de Guapiaçu, threatened species

Morphology of Eugenia guapiassuana.
A leaf adaxial surfaces with puberulent indument; B leaf abaxial surface; C leafy shoots, adaxially cinereous, sericeous, abaxially glabrous and vinaceous; D inflorescences developing along with leafy shoots; E flower bud at early stages of development; F pre-anthetic flower; G flowers at anthesis; H flower from below, showing the cordiform bracteoles; J post-anthetic flower, after stamens fall; K detail of the thick, verrucose pedicel in fruit, swollen at base and apex; L mature fruit with persistent trichomes concentrated on the transition with the calyx (arrowed); M mature fruits.

A – J from Fernandes 1218; K – M from Fernandes 1268. Phtots: Thiago Fernandes.

Eugenia guapiassuana T.Fern., M.T.C.Lacerda & J.M.A.Braga sp. nov. 

ETYMOLOGY. The epithet is a tribute to Reserva Ecológica de Guapiaçu (REGUA), an outstandingly important area for the conservation of Atlantic Forest biodiversity, close to which the new species was found. Guapiaçu (latinised Guapiassu) is treated as an institutional name and adjectivised as guapiassuana. The Tupi indigenous word Guapiaçu (= large headwaters) is the name of the main river crossing the Reserve.

Thiago Fernandes, Pablo Viany Prieto, Marco Túlio Côrtes de Lacerda, Mariana Bünger and João Marcelo Alvarenga Braga. 2024. Eugenia guapiassuana (Myrtaceae), A remarkable New tree Species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.  Kew Bulletin. 79; 233–241. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-023-10159-z

  x.com/KewBulletin/status/1770380970530836545

[Botany • 2024] Catasetum queirozii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae) • A New Species from the Brazilian Amazon

Catasetum queirozii  D.R.P.Krahl, Krahl, Cantuária & J.B.F.Silva, 

in D.R.P. Krahl, Schmal, Chiron, Silva, A.H. Krahl et Cantuária, 2024.

DOI: 10.1590/1809-4392202301801 

  Researchgate.net/publication/377256790

 

ABSTRACT

This study presents a new orchid species of the genus Catasetum belonging to the group of species with symmetrical and parallel antennae. It was found in terra-firme and floodplain forests in the Brazilian states of Amazonas and Pará. We provide a formal description of the new species, images, and notes on distribution, habitat, phenology, flower visitors and preliminary conservation status. We compare it with C. cristatum and C. barbatum, both sympatric and morphologically most similar to the new species. It was preliminarily classified in the Endangered (EN) category according to IUCN criteria based on the extent of occurrence, area of occupation, number of occurrence locations and the risks that the known populations are exposed to (deforestation and predatory collection).

KEYWORDS: Amazonas; dense ombrophilous forest; epiphyte; orchids; Pará; taxonomy

  Catasetum queirozii sp. nov.
A - habit; B - flower in front and side view; C - floral bracts; D - perianth; E - lip in front view; F - lip in lateral view; G - column in ventral and lateral view; H - anther cap and pollinarium.

Credit: A.H. Krahl.

Catasetum queirozii D.R.P.Krahl, Krahl, Cantuária & J.B.F.Silva, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Catasetum queirozii is similar to C. cristatum and C. barbatum, however it differs in its petals with a narrowly elliptical shape and a narrower lip, entire, oblong with a sparsely ciliated margin, with a globular concentration of fimbriae of thick consistency at the apex and the glabrous proximal surface.

Etymology: The specific epithet is given in honor to the agronomist, orchidist and orchid enthusiast Sérgio Alberto Queiroz Costa who has been developing an admirable research work on orchids in the Amazon. He was also the first to call our attention to the true identity of the taxon proposed in this paper.

Dayse Raiane Passos KRAHL, Philippe SCHMAL, Guy CHIRON, João Batista Fernandes da SILVA, Amauri Herbert KRAHL and Patrick de Castro CANTUÁRIA. 2024. Catasetum queirozii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae): A New Species from the Brazilian Amazon. Acta Amazonica. 54(1) DOI: doi.org/10.1590/1809-4392202301801 

  Researchgate.net/publication/377256790_Catasetum_queirozii_a_new_species_from_the_Brazilian_Amazon

Catasetum queirozii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae): uma nova espécie da Amazônia brasileira

RESUMO: Este estudo apresenta uma nova espécie de orquídea do gênero Catasetum, do grupo de espécies cujas antenas são simétricas e paralelas. Foi encontrada em florestas de terra-firme e igapó nos estados do Amazonas e Pará, Brasil. Fornecemos uma descrição formal da nova espécie, imagens e comentários referentes à distribuição, habitat, fenologia, visitantes florais e estatus de conservação. A comparamos com C. cristatum e C. barbatum, que ocorrem em simpatria e são morfologicamente mais semelhantes à nova espécie. Ela foi preliminarmente classificada na categoria Em Perigo (EN) segundo os critérios da UICN, com base na extensão de ocorrência, área de ocupação, número de localidades de ocorrência e os riscos a que as populações conhecidas estão expostas (desmatamento e coleta predatória).

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Amazonas; floresta ombrófila densa; epífita; orquídeas; Pará; taxonomia

[Botany • 2023] Catasetum krahlii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae) • A New and threatened Species from the Brazilian Amazon

Catasetum krahlii D.R.P.Krahl, Cantuária, J.B.F.Silva & Chiron, 

 in Krahl, Oliveira, Silva, Chiron et Cantuária, 2023. 

DOI: 10.1590/1677-941X-ABB-2022-0258 

 Researchgate.net/publication/372978737

 

Abstract

In the present study we propose a new Catasetum taxon belonging to the group of species with symmetrical and converging antennae. It was found in a vegetation of “terra firme” and “campinarana” in the central Brazilian Amazon. A detailed description of the taxon is given as well as a photograph plate and comments relating to distribution, habitat, phenology and conservation status. It is compared to C. rivularium and C. barbatum which are sympatric species and somewhat similar to the new taxon. Furthermore, we present a key to Catasetum species with symmetrical and convergent antennae occurring in the Brazilian Amazon.

Keywords: Amazon basin; biodiversity; Manaus; orchid; epiphyte; taxonomy

Catasetum krahlii.
 A - Habit. B - Inflorescence. C - Floral bract. D-E - Flower. F - Floral segments. G-I - Lip. J-K - Column. L - Anther cap. M - Pollinarium. 

Photos by A.H. Krahl.

Catasetum krahlii.
A - Habit. B - Inflorescence. C - Floral bract. D - Flower. E - Floral segments. F-H - Lip. I - Column. J - Anther cap. K - Pollinarium.

 Ilustration by M.F. Negrão.

Catasetum krahlii D.R.P.Krahl, Cantuária, J.B.F.Silva & Chiron, sp. nov. 

 

Catasetum krahlii Catasetum rivularium Barbosa Rodrigues similis est, ambae species antennas symmetricas convergentesque efficientes, sed labello oblongo (versus triangulare), labelli callo basale acuto unguiforme (versus cylindrico apice laciniato), fimbriis in labelli apice conjunctis (versus liberis), differt.

Etymology: the specific epithet is given in honor of M.Sc. Amauri Herbert Krahl, a Brazilian botanist who specialized in Orchidaceae from Brazilian Amazon and described many species from the region. Moreover, he was the collector of the type and paratype specimens.

Dayse Raiane Passos Krahl, Miguel Sena de Oliveira, João Batista Fernandes da Silva, Guy Chiron, Patrick de Castro Cantuária. 2023. Catasetum krahlii (Orchidaceae, Catasetinae): A New and threatened Species from the Brazilian Amazon. Acta Bot. Bras. 37. DOI: 10.1590/1677-941X-ABB-2022-0258 

 Researchgate.net/publication/372978737_Catasetum_krahlii_a_new_and_threatened_species_from_the_Brazilian_Amazon

[Botany • 2024] Pinguicula tlahuica (Lentibulariaceae) • A New endemic Species and Species Richness Distribution of the Genus Pinguicula in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, Mexico

Pinguicula tlahuica López-Pérez & Zamudio, 

in López-Pérez, Zamudio, Munguía-Lino et Rodríguez, 2024. 

DOI: 10.17129/botsci.3485

 Artwork by Fatima Bracamontes 

Abstract

Background: The genus Pinguicula harbors 110 species, of which 53 are distributed in Mexico. The formation of the Mexican mountains has favored the Pinguicula diversification. Pinguicula specimens collected in the State of México, along the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt (TMVB) do not correspond with any known species.

Questions: Do the collected specimens belong to a new species? What is its conservation status? How many Pinguicula species are there along the TMVB and how do they differentiate? How is the Pinguicula species richness distributed?

Studied species: Pinguicula.

Study site and dates: TMVB, 2005-2023.

Methods: Based on herbarium specimens and recently collected material, a morphological analysis and description were made. Conservation status was assessed following IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Herbarium specimens and digital records of Pinguicula from the TMVB were examined to generate a list and key. We analyzed the richness distribution of Pinguicula by states, vegetation types, elevation ranges, and grid cells.

Results: Pinguicula tlahuica is proposed as a new species. It is distinguished by the linear-spatulate summer leaves. The new species falls into the Endangered (EN) category. Along the TMVB, 16 species of Pinguicula are distributed. The State of México, Hidalgo and Michoacán, and the pine-oak forest were the richest. Pinguicula appeared between 759-3,427 m asl. The grid cell analyses revealed different areas with high richness.

Conclusions: Along the TMVB, the Pinguicula species richness centered on the Eastern and Western sectors. Pinguicula crassifolia, P. michoacana, P. tlahuica, and P. zamudioana are endemic to the TMVB.

Keywords: butterworts, carnivorous plants, diversification, Mexican Transition Zone, Pinguicula section Orcheosanthus

Pinguicula tlahuica.
A) Summer rosette. B) Flowering winter rosette. C) Summer leaves. D) Winter leaves. E) Stipitate glands on the leaf. F) Flower frontal view. G) Flower lateral view. H) Fruit.

 Illustrated by Fatima Bracamontes 

based on type material (J. López-Pérez & G. Munguía-Lino 641).

Pinguicula tlahuica.
A) Habitat. B) Flower frontal view. C-D) Winter rosette with flowers. E) Sterile winter rosette. F) Summer rosette. G) Transition among winter and summer leaves.

 A-G by Jorge López-Pérez.

Pinguicula tlahuica López-Pérez & Zamudio, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis. Pinguicula tlahuica is morphologically similar to P. moranensis Kunth in the form and size of the flow-ers, but it is distinguished from it by: the oblong to oblong-spathulate winter leaves; linear-spatulate summer leaves, 7.0-14.5 × 0.5-1.7 cm; blooming with winter rosette.

Etymology. The specific epithet honors the Tlahuica ethnical people. The tlahuicas inhabit some villages in Ocuilan de Arteaga, State of México (Álvarez Fabela 2006).

 

Mexico Jorge David López-Pérez, Sergio Zamudio, Guadalupe Munguía-Lino, Aarón Rodríguez. 2024. A New endemic Species and Species Richness Distribution of the Genus Pinguicula (Lentibulariaceae) in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, Mexico. Botanical Sciences. 102(3), 995-1008. DOI: 10.17129/botsci.3485

  facebook.com/100063883189278/posts/928738855932212

  facebook.com/100064928642854/posts/869792735195007

  facebook.com/PlantaMexicana/posts/889641333178814

[Botany • 2024] Geocharis globosa • A Recircumscription of Geocharis (Zingiberaceae) as A Result of the Discovery of A New Species in Sumatra, Indonesia

Geocharis globosa Zulaspita & Nurainas, 

in Nurainas, Zulaspita, Febriamansyah, Syamsuardi et Poulsen, 2024. 

 DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.244.119306

Abstract

Recent fieldwork conducted in Sumatra resulted in unusual collections of the conspicuous ginger genus Geocharis, a genus that harbours a total of six species distributed in Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula, Borneo and the Philippines. After carefully reviewing types and protologues of existing taxa, we conclude that the recent collections represent a new species described here as Geocharis globosa, which is similar to G. aurantiaca, G. rubra and G. radicalis by the flowers spreading evenly in all directions but differs from these by the less divided labellum and by the unstructured and smooth globose fruits. We provide a detailed description and a photographic plate as well as a preliminary Red List Assessment for the new species. With the new species added to Geocharis macrostemon and G. radicalis, the number of species in Sumatra hereby increases to three. A recircumscription of the genus is provided, taking into account the unusual fruit character of the new species.

Key words: Geocharis globosa, globose fruit, Mount Marapi, taxonomy, West Sumatra, wild gingers

Geocharis globosa Zulaspita & Nurainas, sp. nov.
A habit B sheath (with tessellate pattern), ligule and base of leaf blade C inflorescence D flower dissection E infructescence F fruit G seeds with and without aril.

Photographs by T.A. Febriamansyah, edited by A.D. Poulsen.

 Geocharis globosa Zulaspita & Nurainas, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: The new species is similar to G. aurantiaca, G. rubra and G. radicalis by the flowers spreading in all directions from an erect flowering shoot but differs from all of these by the labellum being incised only halfway from apex (not deeply or completely divided), and having a smooth and glabrous surface to the ovary and globose fruits (Table 2).

Etymology: The epithet refers to the shape of the fruit.

 Nurainas Nurainas, Witri Zulaspita, Thoriq Alfath Febriamansyah, Syamsuardi Syamsuardi and Axel Dalberg Poulsen. 2024. A Recircumscription of Geocharis (Zingiberaceae) as A Result of the Discovery of A New Species in Sumatra, Indonesia. PhytoKeys 244: 15-22. DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.244.119306

[Crustacea • 2024] Alvinocaris webberi • Check for UpdatesGenetic connectivity and Isotopic Niches of alvinocaridid Shrimps from Chemosynthetic Habitats in Aotearoa/New Zealand, with A New Alvinocaris Species

Alvinocaris webberi 

Methou, Ogawa, Nomaki, Ohkouchi, Chen et Schnabel, 2024

 

 DOI: 10.3354/meps14611 

 x.com/squamiferum

ABSTRACT

Chemosynthetic ecosystems off Aotearoa/New Zealand comprise both hydrothermal vents on the Kermadec Arc and methane seeps on the Hikurangi Margin which host rich communities of specialized fauna including 4 alvinocaridid shrimp species. The systematic positions of these New Zealand alvinocaridid shrimps have not been studied using genetic tools and little is known about their habitat use and feeding habits. Here, we re-evaluate the taxonomy of alvinocaridid shrimps from New Zealand using genetic barcoding and characterize their connectivity and isotopic niches across 8 localities. We describe a new species, Alvinocaris webberi sp. nov., previously confused with A. longirostris. We also show that A. alexander and A. chelys are junior synonyms of A. dissimilis, revealing a high genetic connectivity across hydrothermal vents and methane seeps from Japan to New Zealand, greatly extending its range. Finally, we find clear niche separation in co-occurring alvinocaridid shrimps, suggesting different diets and/or habitat use. Nevertheless, all species rely on chemosynthetic resources, regardless of the habitat depth, which ranges from 380 to 1650 m.

KEY WORDS: Alvinocarididae · Chemosynthesis · Connectivity · Stable isotope · Hydrothermal vent · Hydrocarbon seep · Methane seep

 Alvinocaris webberi sp. nov.

Pierre Methou, Nanako O. Ogawa, Hidetaka Nomaki, Naohiko Ohkouchi, Chong Chen and Kareen Schnabel. 0224. Check for UpdatesGenetic connectivity and Isotopic Niches of alvinocaridid Shrimps from Chemosynthetic Habitats in Aotearoa/New Zealand, with A New Alvinocaris Species. MEPS. 739:85-109. DOI: 10.3354/meps14611

  x.com/squamiferum/status/1809113566731194427

 

[Botany • 2024] Guapurium caipirinha (Myrtaceae) • A New Species of jaboticaba from Brazil with pentamerous flowers

Guapurium caipirinha 

 in Braga, Ferreira da Silva, Melo, Tiburcio, Pereira da Silva, Ferreira, Lacerda et Lorenzi, 2024. 

   DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.652.3.3  

  Researchgate.net/publication/381253781

Abstract

Guapurium caipirinha (Myrtaceae) is a new species of jaboticaba from Minas Gerais state, Southeastern Brazil, which morphologically resembles Plinia oblongata, from which it differs in being a shrub or treelet 1–4 m height, with exclusively pentamerous flowers, and membranous epicarp with very sweet pulp. A detailed morphological description, etymology and vernacular names, information on history, phenology, conservation, habitat and taxonomic notes, a distribution map, and images of living plants and the type specimen are provided.

jaboticaba, Myrtaceae, Myrtales, Plinia, Guapurium, Eudicots  

João Marcelo Alvarenga Braga, Diego Ferreira da Silva, Eugenio Arantes de Melo, Hélio Caixeta Tiburcio, Adelício Pereira da Silva, Rodrigo Borges Ferreira, Marco Túlio Côrtes de Lacerda and Harri Lorenzi. 2024. Guapurium caipirinha (Myrtaceae), A New Species of jaboticaba from Brazil with pentamerous flowers.  Phytotaxa. 652(3); 217-226. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.652.3.3   

 Researchgate.net/publication/381253781_Guapurium_caipirinha_a_new_species_of_jaboticaba_from_Brazil_with_pentamerous_flowers  

[Botany • 2024] Drymonia cutervoensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the Cutervo National Park in northern Peru

Drymonia cutervoensis J.L.Clark, R.Rojas & Rob.Fern., 

in Gonzáles, Fernandez-Hilario et Clark, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1007/s12228-024-09793-z 

facebook.com: Rocio Rojas G  

Abstract

A new species of Drymonia from Northern Peru was recently discovered during exploratory field work and is described here. Drymonia cutervoensis J.L.Clark, R.Rojas & Rob.Fern. is differentiated from all other congeners by its terrestrial unbranched shrub habit and laterally compressed corolla tubes. Drymonia cutervoensis is featured with field images and compared with other members of Drymonia that share laterally compressed corolla tubes. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status of Endangered (EN) is assessed for Drymonia cutervoensis.

Keywords: Cajamarca, Cutervo, Drymonia, Gesneriaceae, Neotropics, taxonomy

 

 Drymonia cutervoensis J.L.Clark, R.Rojas & Rob.Fern.

Rocío del Pilar Rojas Gonzáles, Robin Fernandez-Hilario and John L. Clark. 2024. Drymonia cutervoensis (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from the Cutervo National Park in northern Peru. Brittonia. DOI: 10.1007/s12228-024-09793-z

  facebook.com/gesneria68/posts/10224183312146917

[Botany • 2024] Polylepis rocio-rojasii (Rosaceae) • A New Species from the Bosque de Proteccion Pui-Pui, Peru

 

Polylepis rocio-rojasii

  

in Gamarra et Valdivia, 2024.

 DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.655.1.8

 

Abstract

A new species of Polylepis (Rosaceae) from the Humid Puna of the Bosque de Proteccion Pui-Pui in Junin, Peru, is described and illustrated. The new species was found at 3800 m elevation, in small patches or forest relicts of the natural protected area, growing in open areas highly exposed to wind and abundant fog, along with other shrubby species, mainly Chusquea tessellata (Poaceae). It is very similar to Polylepis canoi but differs by trifoliolate leaves with larger leaflets, lanuginose abaxially, and rounded to ovoid achenes, smaller than those of P. canoi. We also present details on its geographic distribution, ecological notes, and an assessment of the conservation status of the new species.

Exfoliating rhytidomes, Geological formations, National Service of Protected Natural Areas, Tropical Andes, Sericeaee, Sericeus, Stipular sheath, Eudicots

Polylepis rocio-rojasii

Luis Valenzuela Gamarra and María Isabel Villalba Valdivia. 2024. A New Species of Polylepis (Rosaceae) from the Bosque de Proteccion Pui-Pui, Peru.  Phytotaxa. 655(1); 97-104. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.655.1.8

[Funga • 2024] Psilocybe ingeli & P. maluti (Agaricales: Hymenogastraceae) • Two novel Psilocybe species from southern Africa and some notes on African traditional hallucinogenic mushroom use

 Psilocybe maluti B. van der Merwe, A. Rockefeller & K. Jacobs,
 

in van der Merwe, Rockefeller, Kilian, Clark, Sethathi, Moult et Jacobs, 2024.

DOI: 10.1080/00275514.2024.2363137

 Photos by C. Clark.

ABSTRACT

Two new Psilocybe species (Hymenogastraceae), P. ingeli and P. maluti, are described from southern Africa. Morphology and phylogeny were used to separate the two novel fungi from their closest relatives in the genus. Psilocybe ingeli was found fruiting on bovine manure–enriched grasslands in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Province of South Africa and differs from its closest relative P. keralensis and others in the internal transcribed spacer ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, partial 28S nuc rDNA, and translation elongation factor 1-alpha regions, distribution, and having larger basidiospores. Similarly, P. maluti was collected from the Free State Province of South Africa and observed in the Kingdom of Lesotho, growing on bovine manure. A secotioid pileus, geographic distribution, and differences in the same DNA regions distinguish P. maluti from its closest relative P. chuxiongensis. Furthermore, the spore dispersal and traditional, spiritualistic use of P. maluti are discussed here.

KEYWORDS: Psilocybe, South Africa, taxonomy, traditional use, new taxa

 Psilocybe ingeli, Kwa-Zulu Natal Province, South Africa, 28 February 2023.
 (A) Stipe white with mycelium. (B) Striations running up the hemispheric pileus. (C) Pale lamellae margin.

Photos by T. Moult.

Psilocybe ingeli B. van der Merwe, A. Rockefeller & K Jacobs, sp. nov.  

Etymology: Psilocybe ingeli is named after the Ingeli mountain range, where the type specimen was found.

Psilocybe maluti B. van der Merwe, A. Rockefeller & K. Jacobs, sp. nov.  

Etymology: Psilocybe maluti is named after the Maluti Mountains that share the same range as this novel Psilocybe, stretching from the Free State and Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces of South Africa to throughout the Kingdom of Lesotho.

 Psilocybe maluti, Kingdom of Lesotho, 31 December 2021.
 (A) Fimicolous habitat. (A–E) Secotioid pileus. (B) Details of the stipe and veil.

 Photos by C. Clark.

 

B. van der Merwe, A. Rockefeller, A. Kilian, C. Clark, M. Sethathi, T. Moult and K. Jacobs. 2024. A Description of Two novel Psilocybe species from southern Africa and some notes on African traditional hallucinogenic mushroom use. Mycologia. DOI: 10.1080/00275514.2024.2363137

[Herpetology • 2024] Thamnophis ahumadai • A New Species of Thamnophis (Serpentes: Colubridae) from Jalisco, Mexico, with A Discussion on the Phylogeny, Taxonomy, and Distribution of Snakes related to Thamnophis scalaris

Thamnophis ahumadai 

C. I. Grünwald, Mendoza-Portilla, A. J. Grünwald, Montaño-Ruvalcaba, Franz-Chávez, García-Vázquez & Reyes-Velasco, 2024

 

 Ahumada’s Alpine Garter Snake | Culebra Listonada de Montaña de Ahumada ||  DOI: 10.3897/herpetozoa.37.e122213

Abstract

Garter snakes in the genus Thamnophis from Mexico have a long and convoluted taxonomic history. From 2015 to 2022, we conducted a comprehensive sampling of Mexican Thamnophis species, aiming to link molecular phylogenies with the recognized species related to T. scalaris in the highlands of Mexico. Here, we present an analysis of mitochondrial DNA to resolve the status of two enigmatic highland Thamnophis populations. Our research resulted in the identification and morphological characterization of a previously undescribed Thamnophis species from the state of Jalisco in western Mexico. We also clarify the identity and relationships of several previously enigmatic populations of Thamnophis. This work presents new data for Thamnophis phylogenetics from the Mexican highlands and offers a framework for future conservation efforts.

Key Words: Adelophis, conservation, errans, godmani, pine-oak woodland, Mexican Transverse Ranges, scaliger

Thamnophis ahumadai sp. nov. holotype (INIRENA 2933) from the vicinity of Cumbre de Guadalupe, in the Municipio de Cuautla, Jalisco, Mexico.

Thamnophis ahumadai sp. nov. paratypes.
 A. Male (INIRENA 2932) from same locality as holotype; B. Male (INIRENA 2936) from 2.5 km SE of Atemajac de Brizuela, Municipio de Atemajac de Brizuela, Jalisco, Mexico; C. Male (MZFZ 4595) from 4.2 km airline ESE of Cumbre de Guadalupe, Municipio de Tomatlán, Jalisco, Mexico; D. Male (INIRENA 2935) from 2.5 km SE of Atemajac de Brizuela, Municipio de Atemajac de Brizuela, Jalisco, Mexico; E. Male (MZFZ 4593) from Cumbre de Guadalupe, Municipio de Talpa de Allende, Jalisco, Mexico.

 Thamnophis ahumadai sp. nov.

 

Proposed standard English name: Ahumada’s Alpine Garter Snake.

Proposed standard Spanish name: Culebra Listonada de Montaña de Ahumada.

Diagnosis: A relatively small Garter Snake, with a maximum of 565 mm SVL and 705 TotL; head narrow, scarcely wider than neck, with a short muzzle (INK + PFK = 3.0 mm); tail long in length, 31–36% of SVL and 23–27% of TotLin males, 25–26% of SVL and 20–21% of TotLin females; internasals wider than long; frontal 2–2.25 times longer than wide; loreal slightly longer than wide; one preocular; 2–4 postoculars; temporals 1 + 2; 7 supralabials, third and fourth entering orbit; 9–10 infralabials, first four in contact with anterior chinshields; anterior chinshields shorter than posterior. Dorsal scales always in 19-17-17 rows, strongly keeled except for the outermost row, which is smooth; ventral scales in males 134–142, in females 139–141; subcaudals in males 61–69, in females 54–55; anal scale undivided. Dorsal pattern consists of a pale mid-vertebral stripe restricted to the mid-dorsal row and a pale lateral stripe on second scale row. One or two rows of dark brown or black dorso-lateral spots, usually in one row on the anterior third of the dorsum, then divided into two rows along the remaining posterior two thirds. Ventral coloration dark, pale anteriorly, becoming progressively darker until dark gray or black posteriorly.

Etymology: A patronym honoring Iván Trinidad Ahumada-Carrillo (1984–), who has made many contributions to diverse areas in herpetology, including extensive studies of the herpetofauna of Jalisco and Zacatecas. Iván collected the first specimen of this new species in the Sierra Cacoma (MZFZ 4593) and pointed out its distinctiveness from typical T. scalaris and T. errans.

 

Christoph I. Grünwald, María del Carmen G. Mendoza-Portilla, André J. Grünwald, Carlos Montaño-Ruvalcaba, Héctor Franz-Chávez, Uri O. García-Vázquez and Jacobo Reyes-Velasco. 2024. A New Species of Thamnophis (Serpentes, Colubridae) from Jalisco, Mexico, with A Discussion on the Phylogeny, Taxonomy, and Distribution of Snakes related to Thamnophis scalaris. Herpetozoa. 37: 157-179. DOI: 10.3897/herpetozoa.37.e122213

Resumen: Las culebras del género Thamnophis de México tienen una historia taxonómica larga y complicada. De 2015 a 2022, realizamos un muestreo integral de las especies de Thamnophis de México, con el objetivo de conciliar la filogenética molecular con las delimitaciones de especies establecidas en el complejo relacionado con T. scalaris en las tierras altas de México. Aquí presentamos un análisis del ADN mitocondrial para resolver las trayectorias evolutivas y el estado de dos enigmáticas poblaciones de Thamnophis de las tierras altas. Nuestra investigación resultó en la identificación y caracterización morfológica de una especie de Thamnophis no descrita previamente del estado de Jalisco en el oeste de México. También aclaramos la identidad y las relaciones de varias poblaciones de Thamnophis previamente enigmáticas. Este trabajo presenta nuevos datos para nuestra comprensión de la filogenética de Thamnophis del altiplano mexicano y ofrece un marco para futuros esfuerzos de conservación.

[Herpetology • 2024] Hyloscirtus arcanus • Forty years later: A New Andean Stream Treefrog of the Genus Hyloscirtus (Anura: Hylidae) from Ecuador, with comments on arm hypertrophy in the H. larinopygion group

Hyloscirtus arcanus

Rivera-Correa, Ron, Nunes, Araujo-Vieira, Pinheiro & Grant, 2024

 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5474.2.1

  Researchgate.net/publication/381716944

  x.com/santiak

 

Abstract

We present the description of a novel treefrog species inhabiting the Andean streams in southeastern Ecuador that has been erroneously identified as Hyloscirtus lindae for four decades. The new species is closely related to H. tapichalaca and is part of the southern clade of the H. larinopygion group, which comprises five species confined to the southeastern Andes of Ecuador to the northeastern Andes of Peru. It is diagnosed from its close relatives by a unique combination of characteristics, including hypertrophied forelimbs in males, a pronounced, curved, and protruding spine-shaped prepollex, a substantial supracloacal flap, supratympanic fold, digital discs colored in shades of orange-red or bright-red, and the concealed surfaces of limbs displaying a bluish-gray hue and dorsal spicules in males. We briefly explore the implications of this discovery for the evolution of arm morphology in the H. larinopygion group. Our findings underscore the continued importance of periodically reviewing historical specimens, leading to unexpected discoveries; once again confirming the importance of natural history museums and their custodian biological collections.

 Amphibia, Andes, biological collections, biodiversity, morphology, systematics, taxonomy

Mauricio Rivera-Correa, Santiago Ron, Ivan Nunes, Katyuscia Araujo-Vieira, Paulo D. P. Pinheiro and Taran Grant. 2024. Forty years later: A New Andean Stream Treefrog of the Genus Hyloscirtus (Anura: Hylidae) from Ecuador, with comments on arm hypertrophy in the H. larinopygion group.  Zootaxa. 5474(2); 101-126. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5474.2.1

  Researchgate.net/publication/381716944_a_new_Hyloscirtus_from_Ecuador

  facebook.com/DoubleHelixRanch/posts/10161470283035170

  x.com/santiak/status/1806410840406466960