[Paleontology • 2026] Acutodon villeveyracensis • A New pan-shinisaur Lizard (Anguimorpha) from the lower Campanian of Villeveyrac (Hérault, France)

Acutodon villeveyracensis 

Jansen, Augé, Garcia, Otero & Valentin, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2026.2636649 

Artwork by Olivier Jansen

ABSTRACT

The Chinese crocodile lizard (Anguimorpha, Pan-Shinisaurus Shinisaurus crocodilurus) is an endangered species inhabiting the lowland rainforests of southeastern China and northern Vietnam. The evolutionary history of this clade remains poorly understood, as only five fossil species and a few fossil specimens are described from the Lower Cretaceous of China and the Cenozoic of Europe and North America, revealing a considerable gap in the fossil record. A new anguimorph, Acutodon villeveyracensis gen. et sp. nov., is described from the lower Campanian (Upper Cretaceous) locality of Villeveyrac (Hérault, France), corresponding to a freshwater subtropical paleoenvironment. The species is attributed to a pan-shinisaur anguimorph based on a toothed maxilla sharing multiple characters with the extant Sh. crocodilurus and its fossil relatives, notably tall, tapered, and recurved teeth, with mesiodistally constricted tooth bases lacking basal infoldings but possessing medial resorption pits, and a posteromedially shifted anterior superior alveolar foramen. This Cretaceous record is the oldest in Europe for pan-shinisaur lizards. It pre-dates the occurrence of this clade in Europe by around 30 Myr, raising questions about the paleobiogeographic history of pan-shinisaur lizards.

Acutodon villeveyracensis holotype and unique material (UP.VIL.2010.55). Photographs, virtual reconstruction, and interpretative drawings of the maxilla in A, labial; B, lingual; C, occlusal; and D, dorsal views. Note that the posteriormost tooth was lost after CT scanning.

Abbreviations: asaf, anterior superior alveolar foramen; ce, cutting edge; cl, crista lateralis; ct, crista transversalis; fp, facial process; lf, labial foramina; lic, lamina intercristalis; lpp, lateral premaxillary process; lr, lacrimal recess; mpp, medial premaxillary process; ps, palatal shelf; rp, resorption pit; sds, supradental shelf. Scale bar equals 10 mm.

Details of the teeth of Acutodon villeveyracensis holotype and unique material (UP.VIL.2010.55) from the virtual reconstruction.
A, morphology in anterior view; B, section in median plane; C, section in horizontal plane.

Abbreviations: asaf, anterior superior alveolar foramen; c, cement; cl, crista lateralis; ct, crista transversalis; d, dentine; lf, labial foramen; lpp, lateral premaxillary process; m, maxilla; mpp, medial premaxillary process; ps, palatal shelf; t1–t4, teeth numbered from front to back. Scale bar equals 2 mm.

SQUAMATA Oppel, Citation1811

ANGUIMORPHA Fürbringer, Citation1900

PAN-SHINISAURUS sensu Smith and Gauthier, Citation2013

ACUTODON gen. nov.

ACUTODON VILLEVEYRACENSIS, gen. et sp. nov.

Diagnosis—Large anguimorph lizard characterized by the following combination of characters: the teeth are tall, thin, and possess a tapered apex; anterior teeth are strongly posteriorly recurved, but the most posterior teeth are straight; the teeth lack striations and basal infoldings; the base of the teeth expands lingually but is strongly anteroposteriorly compressed, and is covered in a thin layer of cementum; the crowns have a faint cutting edge, restricted to the most apical portion; medial resorption pits are ...

Etymology—‘acutus’ (Latin), sharp, pointed, piercing, and thin; ‘ὀδόντος’ (Greek), teeth; the genus name refers to the tapered, sharp, and thin teeth of this new genus; ‘villeveyracensis’ (Latin) from the locality of Villeveyrac, department of Hérault, France, where this new lizard taxon has been found.

Acutodon villeveyracensis
Paleoartistic reconstruction of the new genus and species of pan-shinisaur lizard from the lower Campanian of Villeveyrac (Hérault, France). Original artwork by Olivier Jansen.

Olivier Jansen, Marc Augé, Geraldine Garcia, Olga Otero and Xavier Valentin. 2026. A New pan-shinisaur Lizard (Anguimorpha) from the lower Campanian of Villeveyrac (Hérault, France). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2026.2636649  [20 May 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Didymocarpus xuanlienensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Vietnam

 

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis T.S.Hoang, W.G.Wang & H.C.Xi,  

in Tran, Hoang, Wang, Lang et  Xi, 2026. 

Song quả Xuân Liên  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.185766

 

Abstract

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis, a new species from Vietnam, is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to D. brevipedunculatus and D. purpureobracteatus in terms of corolla size and color but differs from D. brevipedunculatus in leaf blade shape, bract shape, indumentum, and calyx shape and differs from D. purpureobracteatus in peduncle indumentum, bract shape, and calyx shape. A detailed morphological description of the new species and a key to all Didymocarpus species in Vietnam are provided.

Key words: Didymocarpus, new taxon, taxonomy, Vietnam

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis T.S.Hoang, W.G.Wang & H.C.Xi, sp. nov.
A. Habitat; B. Flowering plant; C. Leaves, adaxial and abaxial views; D. Inflorescences; E. Part of inflorescence, showing peduncle, pedicel and bracts; F. Bracts; G. Calyx and disc; H. Flowers; I. Dissected corolla, showing stamens and pistil (Photos by Son Thanh Hoang).

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis T.S.Hoang, W.G.Wang & H.C.Xi, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. The new species differs from the most similar species, Didymocarpus brevipedunculatus Y.H.Tan & Bin Yang, (2019: 191), in leaf blade elliptic to oblong, base cuneate (vs. ovate, base extremely obliquely cordate); bracts broadly ovate, glabrous (vs. orbicular to ovate, sparsely villous); calyx broadly campanulate, lobes triangular (vs. campanulate, lobes ovate to semiorbicular). D. xuanlienensis is also similar to D. purpureobracteatus W.W.Smith, (1912: 153) but differs from it in peduncle glandular-pubescent (vs. glabrous); bracts free (vs. often connate at base); calyx actinomorphic, broadly campanulate, lobes triangular (vs. slightly zygomorphic, tubular campanulate, lobes semiorbicular). Moreover, the new species differs from D. brevipedunculatus and D. purpureobracteatus in distribution, elevation, and flowering time. A detailed morphological and ecological comparison of these three species is presented in Table 1.

Van Thi Thuy Tran, Son Thanh Hoang, Wen-Guang Wang, Xiao-An Lang and Hou-Cheng Xi. 2026. Didymocarpus xuanlienensis, A New Species of Didymocarpus (Gesneriaceae) from Vietnam. PhytoKeys. 275: 73-79. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.185766 [21 May 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Pyralis papaleonei • A New Species (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) from Crete (Greece)

[2, 3, 6, 9] Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov.

Huemer, Kaila & Segerer, 2026;

[4] P. kacheticalis;    [5] P. regalis  

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/nl.49.185483

Abstract 

Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. is described based on diagnostic phenotypic and genital morphological characters as well as unique DNA barcodes (COI gene – cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) and compared with closely related taxa occurring in the Eastern Mediterranean, namely P. kacheticalis and P. regalis. The new species is endemic to the island of Crete and currently only known from the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) in the western part of the island. Pyralis kacheticalis is recorded from Iraq and Armenia for the first time.

Pyralis spp., habitus.
2. Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov., holotype, ♂; 3. P. papaleonei sp. nov., paratype, ♂;
4. P. kacheticalis, ♂, Georgia; 5. P. regalis ♂, Italy (TLMF). 

Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. is distinguished from all congeners by its narrow white forewing markings, featuring an almost uniformly slender white median band extending across the entire wing (Figs 2, 3). In all other species of the group (Figs 4, 5), except for specimens of P. kacheticalis from Cyprus, the white pattern elements are distinctly broader, and in some cases abruptly narrowed medially or terminating in the middle of the wing. Also characteristic are the nearly uniform pale greyish-purple hindwings, which are divided into three sections by two white lines; the basal section is only slightly darker than the outer sections. In contrast, in ...

Etymology. The new species is dedicated to the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV. The Pontiff is a strong advocate of climate and environmental protection, and we hope that his voice may serve as an example for humanity. Furthermore, due to its distinctive coloration and overall appearance, the new species belongs to a group of Pyralidae whose species names refer to high secular or ecclesiastical offices, including Pyralis regalis, Pyralis imperialis (= P. kacheticalis), Pyralis princeps, and Pyralis cardinalis.

 Peter Huemer, Lauri Kaila and Andreas H. Segerer. 2026. Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. from Crete (Greece) (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae). Nota Lepidopterologica. 49: 63-74. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/nl.49.185483 [28 Apr 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Teulisna breveprocessa & T. nicobara • Two New Species and A New Species Record of Genus Teulisna Walker (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) from India

[1-2]. Teulisna breveprocessa sp. nov., Devikulam, Kerala, India;
[3] T. ruma (Swinhoe. 1889), Nilgiri, Tamil Nadu, India; [4] T. basigera (Walker [1865]), Tamil Nadu, India (NZCZSI); [5] T. inducta (Walker 1864), Naduvattam, Tamil Nadu, India;
[6-8]. T. nicobara sp. nov., Great Nicobar Islands, Govind Nagar, India.

S. Singh, N. Singh & Joshi, 2026 

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2026.03.007

Abstract

Two new species of the genus Teulisna Walker, 1862 (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Lithosiina) are described from India: T. (Cossa) breveprocessa sp. nov. (from the Western Ghats of Kerala) and T. (Tegulata) nicobara sp. nov. (from the Great Nicobar Island). The former is diagnosed with its close congeners in the subgenus Cossa Walker: T. (C.) ruma (Swinhoe, [1890] 1889), T. (C.) munnara Volynkin, 2023, T. (C.) basigera (Walker, [1865]) and T. (C.) inducta (Walker, [1865]), whereas the latter is diagnosed with T. (Tegulata) chiloides chiloides (Walker 1862). T. (Poikilothosia) sayinyingpo Huang, Volynkin & Černý, 2025, from Arunachal Pradesh, which is a new record to India.

Keywords: Kerala, Lithosiina, Nicobar Islands, NorthEast Himalaya, Tegulata, Western Ghats

Habitus of Teulisna spp.
1. Teulisna breveprocessa sp. nov., m# HT, Devikulam, Kerala, India (NZCZSI); 2. T. breveprocessa sp. nov., m# PT, Devikulam, Kerala, India (NZCZSI);
3. T. ruma (Swinhoe. 1889) m# Avalanchi, Nilgiri, Tamil Nadu, India (NZCZSI); 4. T. basigera (Walker [1865]) m# Pykara, Tamil Nadu, India (NZCZSI);
5. T. inducta (Walker 1864), m#, Naduvattam, Tamil Nadu, India (NZCZSI);
6. T. nicobara sp. nov., m# HT Great Nicobar Islands, Govind Nagar, India (NZCZSI); 7. T. nicobara sp. nov., m# PT Great Nicobar Islands, Govind Nagar, India (NZCZSI); 8. T. nicobara sp. nov., f# PT, Great Nicobar Islands, Govind Nagar, India (NZCZSI);
9. T. sayinyingpo Huang, Volynkin & Černý, 2025 m#, Sela, Arunachal Pradesh, India (NZCZSI); 10. T. sayinyingpo Huang, Volynkin & Černý, 2025 f#, Sela, Arunachal Pradesh, India (NZCZSI).

Teulisna (Cossa) breveprocessa sp. nov. (from the Western Ghats of Kerala) 

T. (Tegulata) nicobara sp. nov. (from the Great Nicobar Island).

Santosh Singh, Navneet Singh and Rahul Joshi. 2026. Two New Species and A New Species Record of Genus Teulisna Walker (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) from India. Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity. In Press. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2026.03.007 [20 April 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Henckelia moniliformis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from North-Eastern Thailand

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim., 

in Sirimongkol, Tetsana et Middleton, 2026. 

เศวตนาด้วง หรือ ดาวสร้อยไข่มุก  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.1.06  

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Abstract

The new species Henckelia moniliformis (Gesneriaceae) is described from North-Eastern Thailand. A key to the species of Henckelia in Thailand is provided, along with illustrations, notes on the ecology and the IUCN conservation status of the new species.

Keywords: Henckelia amplexifolia, Henckelia nakianensis, Lamiales, revision,taxonomy

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim.:
A.–C. habitat; D. lower leaves; E. flower, side view; F. flower, front view; G. fruit; H. eglandular hairs.

Photos by Naiyana Tetsana.

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim.:
 A. shows undeveloped leaf; B. shows pair of small leaves; C. flower dissection; D. shows moniliform hairs; E. & F. 100X moniliform hairs; G. fruits; H. seeds.

 A.–H. photos by Sukontip Sirimongkol.

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim. sp. nov.

This new species is allied to Henckelia amplexifolia and H. nakianensis in having a campanulate corolla tube which is less than 1 cm long, but differs in having one caducous bract (two persistent bracts in H. amplexifolia and H. nakianensis), two flowers per inflorescence (vs mostly more than two flowers per inflorescence), calyx persistent (vs calyx caducous), two lobes of upper lip hooded (vs two lobes of upper lip straight), anthers with dense moniliform hairs only on the lower half (vs anthers glabrous), staminodes apparently lacking (vs present) and orthocarpic fruit (vs  plagiocarpic  fruit).  It  also  differs  from  H. amplexifolia in having a caulescent habit (acaulescent in H. amplexifolia) and lacking stolons (present in H. amplexifolia) and differs from H. nakianensis in having more than one leaf (only one leaf in H. nakianensis) and the curved filaments (filaments straight in H. nakianensis)

  

 

Sukontip Sirimongkol, Naiyana Tetsana, David J. Middleton. 2026. A New Species of Henckelia (Gesneriaceae) from North-Eastern Thailand. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany), 54(1); 58–63. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.1.06 [2026-05-20] 

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"เศวตนาด้วง" พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก

พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก ตีพิมพ์ในวารสาร Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany) vol. 54(1):58-63. 2026 โดย ดร. สุคนธ์ทิพย์ ศิริมงคล และ ดร. นัยนา เทศนา กลุ่มงานพฤกษศาสตร์ป่าไม้ สำนักวิจัยการอนุรักษ์ป่าไม้และพันธุ์พืช กรมอุทยานแห่งชาติ สัตว์ป่า และพันธุ์พืช ร่วมกับ Dr David J. Middleton นักพฤกษศาสตร์จากสวนพฤกษศาสตร์เอดินบะระ สกอตแลนด์ ผู้เชี่ยวชาญพืชวงศ์ชาฤาษี (Gesneriaceae) ของโครงการพรรณพฤกษชาติประเทศไทย (Flora of Thailand) ซึ่งพรรณไม้ชนิดนี้พบโดยทีมสำรวจพรรณไม้ภายใต้โครงการวิจัยความหลากหลายของพันธุ์พืชในระบบนิเวศเขาหินปูน บริเวณอำเภอนาด้วง จังหวัดเลย โดยตัวอย่างพรรณไม้ต้นแบบ (Holotype) N. Tetsana et al. หมายเลข 2974 ถูกเก็บรักษาไว้ที่หอพรรณไม้ กรมอุทยานแห่งชาติสัตว์ป่า และพันธุ์พืช (BKF)

เศวตนาด้วง หรือ ดาวสร้อยไข่มุก ชื่อพฤกษศาสตร์ Henckelia monilformis Sirim. จัดอยู่ในวงศ์ชาฤาษี (Gesneriaceae) เป็นพืชล้มลุกปีเดียว ขนาดเล็ก ใบเรียงตรงข้าม โดยใบคู่แรกเจริญเติบโตเต็มที่ใบเดียว ส่วนใบคู่ที่สองมีขนาดขนาดเล็ก ดอกออกเป็นช่อกระจุกจำนวน 2-8 ช่อ แต่ละช่อมี 2 ดอก ออกตามซอกใบ หรือดอกช่อล่างสุดออกติดโคนเส้นกลางใบ ดอกสีขาวรูประฆัง ยาว 4-5 มิลลิเมตร. กลีบดอก 5 กลีบ 2 กลีบด้านบนม้วนงอ 3 กลีบดอกด้านล่าง ปลายแผ่ออก เกสรเพศผู้ที่สมบูรณ์ 2 อัน ด้านล่างอับเรณูมีขนแบบเซลล์เรียงต่อกันคล้ายสร้อยไข่มุก

ปัจจุบันเศวตนาด้วง (เศวต=ขาว) เป็นพืชถิ่นเดียวของประเทศไทย พบขึ้นกระจายเฉพาะพื้นที่เขาหินปูนบริเวณของจังหวัดเลย บริเวณวัดถ้ำผาดำสันติธรรม อ.นาด้วง จ. เลย ซึ่งมีจำนวนประชากรค่อนข้างน้อย พบประมาณ 100-150 ต้น ในพื้นที่ประมาณ 2-3 ตารางเมตร บริเวณที่พบอยู่ในเขต ป่าสงวนแห่งชาติป่าโคกผาดำ 

สถานภาพการอนุรักษ์จัดเป็นพืชใกล้สูญพันธุ์ (Endangered - EN) ตามเกณฑ์ของ IUCN พบเฉพาะจากแหล่งที่เก็บตัวอย่างพรรณไม้ต้นแบบเท่านั้น ซึ่งไม่ได้เป็นพื้นที่อนุรักษ์คุ้มครอง ในฤดูแล้ง พืชอาจถูกรบกวนโดยนักท่องเที่ยว ยังไม่พบแหล่งกระจายพันธุ์ของพืชชนิดนี้เพิ่มเติม การสำรวจพืชชนิดนี้ในแหล่งหินปูนอื่น ๆ ในภูมิภาคนี้อย่างเข้มข้นคาดว่าจะนำไปสู่การค้นพบประชากรเพิ่มเติม ซึ่งมีความเป็นไปได้ว่าถิ่นที่อยู่อาศัยที่เหมาะสมของพืชชนิดนี้มีจำกัด

การอนุรักษ์ถิ่นที่อยู่เขาหินปูนหย่อมเล็ก ๆ โดยการประกาศเป็นพื้นที่อนุรักษ์ความหลากหลายทางชีวภาพนอกเขตพื้นที่คุ้มครอง หรือ Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures: OECMs เป็นแนวทางหนึ่งที่ช่วยอนุรักษ์ถิ่นที่อยู่อาศัย รวมถึงการเก็บรักษาเมล็ดในธนาคารเมล็ด (Seed Bank) ก็เป็นตัวช่วยที่สำคัญ

[Herpetology • 2026] Trachischium lalremsangai • A New Species of Fossorial Snake of the Genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma Biodiversity Hotspot

Trachischium lalremsangai 

Bhardwaj, Bal, Tluanga & Mirza, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e187919  

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Abstract

A new species of fossorial natricine snake, Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov., is described from the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The holotype was collected from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, near the India–Myanmar border, while the paratype originated from Haka Township, Chin State, Myanmar. Based on morphological and molecular data, the new species is related to T. reticulata (Blyth); however, it can be diagnosed from members of the genus Trachischium by possessing 13 dorsal scale rows, two postoculars, one anterior temporal scale, and two posterior temporal scales, in addition to distinctive colouration and other scalation details. The discovery of several new snake species within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot underscores the need for increased research efforts and funding dedicated to this region in the near future.

Key Words: Blythia, Colubridae, Myanmar, Natricinae, northeast India, phylogeny, taxonomy

Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov. holotype male MZMU 3757 in situ.

Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov.

Diagnosis. A large-sized member of the genus reaching SVL of 351–432 mm. Dorsal scales smooth and iridescent, arranged in 13 rows throughout the body. Supralabials 5–6, 3rd and 4th in contact with orbit. Paired prefrontals; a pair of postoculars. Temporals 1+2. Ventrals 135 (+3–4 preventrals) and 28–29 subcaudals paired. Dorsum brown and ventrally, anterior one quarter of the snake is creamish white, while the rest is a shade of brown that has sparse white speckles.

Etymology. The specific epithet is a patronym honouring Prof. Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga of Mizoram University for his contributions to herpetology in Northeast India, his guidance to numerous students, and his facilitation of research throughout the region and the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

 Virender K. Bhardwaj, Amit K. Bal, Chhangte L. Tluanga and Zeeshan A. Mirza. 2026. A New Species of Fossorial Snake of the Genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma Biodiversity Hotspot. Herpetozoa. 39: 203-215. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e187919 [19 May 2026]

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[Botany • 2026] Rhododendron jiucaipingensis (Ericaceae, subgen. Hymenanthes) • A New Species from Guizhou, China

Rhododendron jiucaipingensis Jian Xu & M. T. An, 

in Hu, Xu, An, Yu et Lu, 2026. 

韭菜坪杜鹃  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.183519

Abstract

Rhododendron jiucaipingensis Jian Xu & M. T. An, sp. nov. (Ericaceae), a new species of R. subgen. Hymenanthes, subsect. Argyrophylla, from northwestern Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. It is an evergreen shrub 1.5–3.0 m tall, characterized by green, densely white-tomentose current-year branchlets, leaves crowded at branch apices (5.5–9.5 × 2.5–4.0 cm) with 8–11 pairs of lateral veins, 10 stamens, and cylindric capsules 1.2–2.0 cm long. The new species is morphologically most similar to R. hypoglaucum and R. argyrophyllum, but it is readily distinguished by having densely white-tomentose current-year branchlets, fewer lateral veins (8–11 pairs), a double-layered white indumentum on the abaxial surfaces of young leaves, and 10 stamens. Phylogenetic analysis based on a whole-genome SNP dataset robustly resolves R. jiucaipingensis as a distinct lineage within subsect. Argyrophylla, positioned as sister to the monophyletic clade of five congeneric species with high support (SH-aLRT = 100%, UFBoot = 100%). This molecular evidence, congruent with diagnostic morphological characters, supports the recognition of R. jiucaipingensis as a species new to science.

Key words: Ericaceae, Flora of China, morphology, phylogeny, taxonomy

Rhododendron jiucaipingensis Jian Xu & M. T. An, sp. nov.
 A. Cliff habitat; B. Older branches; C. Current-year branchlet and its dense white tomentum (inset); D. Mature leaf and its short, brown tomentum on the abaxial surface (inset); E. Adaxial surface of young leaf; F. Abaxial surface of young leaf and long white glandular hairs of it (inset); G. Flowering plant; H. Anatomical diagram of the flower and leaf; I. Stamens and their white stiff hairs at the filament base (inset); J. Calyx; K. Ovary; L. Capsule and its colorless stellate hairs (inset); M. Capsule in longitudinal section (Photographs by Jian Xu)

Diagnosis. Rhododendron jiucaipingensis belongs to subgen. Hymenanthes and is similar in morphology to R. hypoglaucum and R. argyrophyllum, but can be distinguished from R. hypoglaucum by its current-year branchlets and young petioles being densely covered with indumentum (vs. glabrous), and its pedicels being densely white-villous (vs. glabrous). It further differs from R. hypoglaucum in having fewer lateral veins (8–11 pairs vs. 10–14 pairs), an ovary sparsely covered with colorless stellate hairs (vs. glabrous), and typically 7-loculed capsules (vs. 6-loculed). Compared to R. argyrophyllum, the new species is distinguished by its acuminate leaf apex (vs. obtuse), fewer stamens (10 vs. 12–15), and the presence of colorless stellate hairs on the ovary (vs. white short tomentum). Additionally, R. jiucaipingensis is characterized by its restricted cliff habitat at higher elevations (2,400–2,700 m).

Etymology. The specific epithet jiucaipingensis refers to the type locality, Xingfa Township (Jiucaiping), Hezhang County, Bijie City, Guizhou, China.

Vernacular name. The Chinese name is jiǔ cài píng dù juān (韭菜坪杜鹃).

Hong-Fen Hu, Jian Xu, Ming-Tai An, Jiang-Hong Yu, Xing Lu. 2026. Rhododendron jiucaipingensis (Ericaceae), A New Species from Guizhou, China. PhytoKeys 275: 15-26. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.183519 [19 May 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Sonerila roxburghii (Melastomataceae) • A New Species from the southern Western Ghats, India

 

Sonerila roxburghii  Resmi, Nampy & Karthig., 

in Resmi, Nampy, Francis, Mohan et Karthigeyan, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0119

Abstract

Sonerila roxburghii Resmi, Nampy & Karthig. (Melastomataceae) is described as a new species from the Mankulam Reserve forest in the southern Western Ghats, India. It is morphologically similar to S. grandiflora and S. sadasivanii but differs from them by having terete stems, lanceolate to elliptic leaves with a cuneate and attenuate base, 3–10-flowered cymes, obscurely 6-ribbed hypanthia, acuminate to rostrate anthers, and 6-ribbed capsules.

Sonerila roxburghii. — A–E: Plants in natural habitats (A–C from Nallathanni, near Kurumalai bridge on 9 December 2025; D and E from Mankulam Reserve forest, near Lakshmi Tea estate on 20 December 2019).

Sonerila roxburghii (holotype material). — A and B: Habit. — C and D: Flowering shoots. — E: Leaves, adaxial view. — F: Leaves, abaxial view. — G: Stem. — H: Leaf base.

Sonerila roxburghii (holotype material). — A: Flowering shoot with inflorescences. — B: Base of stem. — C and D: Inflorescence. — E: Flower. — F: Hypanthium. — G: Petals, adaxial view. — H: Petals, abaxial view. — I: Hypanthium with stamens and pistil. — J: Hypanthium with pistil. — K: Style and stigma. — L: Stamens. — M: Immature capsule.

Sonerila roxburghii Resmi, Nampy & Karthig., sp. nova 

 

Etymology. The specific epithet roxburghii honours William Roxburgh (1751–1815) for his valuable contributions to the taxonomy of the genus Sonerila.

Comparison of morphological characters among
Sonerila roxburghii (A1, B1 and C1; holotype material),
S. grandiflora (A2, B2 and C2; Resmi S., Krishnapriya M.P. & Santhosh Nampy 164464, CALI) and
S. sadasivanii (A3, B3 and C3; from Resmi S. & Santhosh Nampy 168287, CALI).
 A1–A3: Habit. — B1–B3: Inflorescence. — C1–C3: Leaves, adaxial view.

 

Resmi S., Nampy S., Francis D., Mohan V. & Karthigeyan K. 2026. Sonerila roxburghii (Melastomataceae), A New Species from the southern Western Ghats, India.  Annales Botanici Fennici. 62(1); 125–134, DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0119 (7 May 2026) 

[Botany • 2026] Dioon nuusaviorum (Zamiaceae) • A striking New Species from pine and pine-oak forest of Guerrero, Mexico

Dioon nuusaviorum Mart.-Domínguez, Nic.-Mor. & D.W.Stev.,   

in Martínez-Domínguez, Nicolalde-Morejón, Stevenson, Lorea-Hernández et Vergara-Silva, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.274.173907 

Abstract

Taxonomic studies in cycad genera using multiple approaches have refined the delimitation of many species. In the case of Dioon Lindl., a Mesoamerican genus, a reliable classification has been achieved through taxonomic work carried out since the description of the genus and pioneering studies in Mexico during the 1980–90s. Here, we describe a new species from Guerrero based on evidence collected from populations encountered during fieldwork carried out in 2019. These populations had previously been considered morphologically similar to Dioon holmgrenii De Luca, Sabato & Vázq. Torres, which has a markedly disjunct distribution in Oaxaca. After studying herbarium specimens and making extensive observations on vegetative and reproductive structures from different populations in Oaxaca, we have concluded that the disjunct populations analysed in 2019 represent a distinct and new species of Dioon, separate from the two most phenotypically similar species—namely, D. stevensonii Nic.-Mor. & Vovides and D. holmgrenii. A key to geographically proximal and morphologically similar species as well as to the other species occurring in Guerrero and Oaxaca States is also presented. The proposed new species, Dioon nuusaviorum Mart.-Domínguez, Nic.-Mor. & D.W.Stev., is endemic to Guerrero and inhabits pine and pine-oak forest. Its conservation status, assessed on the based IUCN guidelines and criteria, qualifies as Endangered.

Key words: Cycadales, cycads, Mesoamerica, Neotropics, Sierra Madre del Sur

Dioon nuusaviorum sp. nov.
A. Ovulate strobilus; B. Megasporophyll; C. Basal scale of megasporophyll; D. Microsporophyll; E. Leaflets variation; F. Cataphylls; G. Seeds variation; H. New leaves; I. Leaves at emergence; J. Leaf at maturity.

Dioon nuusaviorum sp. nov., in habitat.
 A. Ovuliferous plant in habitat; B. Eumaeus sp; C. Population in La Trinidad; D. Vegetation view; E. Ovulate strobilus at maturity in habitat. 

Dioon nuusaviorum Mart.-Domínguez, Nic.-Mor. & D.W.Stev., sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Dioon nuusaviorum sp. nov. differs from D. holmgrenii by having leaflets imbricate to strongly imbricate, each with three to six long marginal teeth (0.26–0.37 cm long), a margin of the leaflets curved acroscopically, microsporophylls with an acuminate apex and megasporophylls with an apiculate apex. In contrast, D. holmgrenii has non-imbricate leaflets (generally a 0.2–1.0 cm between leaflets) with two to five short teeth on the distal margin (0.15–0.29 cm long), a margin of the leaflets straight, microsporophylls with an acute apex and megasporophylls with an acuminate apex. In comparison to D. stevensonii, this new species differs by its light green leaflets at emergence (vs golden), leaflet imbricate to strongly imbricate (vs not imbricate), acuminate apex of microsporophylls (vs acute), tomentose indument and narrowly-triangular megasporophylls at maturity (vs pubescent at base or scarcely pubescent and triangular).

Comparison of leaflets of Dioon holmgrenii, D. stevensonii and Dioon nuusaviorum sp. nov.
A. D. stevensonii; B. D. holmgrenii; C. Dioon nuusaviorum sp. nov.;
D. D. stevensonii (F. Nicolalde-Morejón et al. 1554, CIB); E. D. holmgrenii (Brigada T. Walters s/n [3997], XAL); F. D. holmgrenii (F. Nicolalde-Morejón et al. 1468, XAL); G. Dioon nuusaviorum sp. nov. (L. Martínez-Domínguez et al. 1745, CIB).

 Lilí Martínez-Domínguez, Fernando Nicolalde-Morejón, Dennis Wm. Stevenson, Francisco G. Lorea-Hernández and Francisco Vergara-Silva. 2026. A striking New Species of Dioon (Zamiaceae) from pine and pine-oak forest of Guerrero, Mexico. PhytoKeys. 274: 229-245. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.274.173907 [11 May 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Arcovomer moqueca & A. ubatuba • Unveiling Cryptic Diversity in the Genus Arcovomer (Anura: Microhylidae): Description of Two New Species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

(C–F) Arcovomer moqueca sp. n. from Aracruz (type locality), state of Espírito Santo;
(G–H) A. ubatuba sp. n. from Ubatuba (type locality), state of São Paulo 

Andrade, Lyra, & Toledo, 2026  

SALAMANDRA. 62(2); 

Note the differences in color patterns among individuals, with the dorsum and limbs ranging from light grey to dark brown.

Abstract

 The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is one of the world’s most threatened biodiversity hotspots, harbouring high levels of species richness and endemism, including more than 700 amphibian species. Although considerable progress has been made in describing this diversity, new species continue to be formally recognized each year, and many lineages remain poorly studied. Here, we use an integrative approach combining molecular, morphometric, and bioacoustic data to reassess species diversity within the frog genus Arcovomer (Anura, Microhylidae), long regarded as monotypic. Our results reveal the presence of three deeply divergent lineages within the genus Arcovomer. One corresponds to A. passarellii, the type species from the state of Rio de Janeiro, while the other two represent distinct lineages from the states of Espírito Santo and São Paulo, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial and nuclear markers recovered Arcovomer as a strongly supported clade, and morphometric and acoustic evidence combined with molecular data support the distinctiveness of these lineages, leading to the description of two new species. These species are geographically structured across distinct ecoregions of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, highlighting the conservation relevance of recognizing independently evolving, range-restricted taxa. By revealing previously overlooked diversity within this genus, this study highlights the importance of integrative taxonomy, long-term specimen curation, and sound archives for documenting and conserving biodiversity within one of the world’s most threatened biomes. 

Key words. Amphibia, genetic divergence, bioacoustics, endemism, integrative taxonomy, biological collections.

Variation in coloration in life among three species of Arcovomer:
 A. passarellii (ZUEC-AMP 26936) from Rio das Ostras, state of Rio de Janeiro (A–B);
A. moqueca sp. n. from Aracruz (type locality), state of Espírito Santo (C–F);
A. ubatuba sp. n. from Ubatuba (type locality), state of São Paulo (G–H).

Note the differences in color patterns among individuals, with the dorsum and limbs ranging from light grey to dark brown.

Arcovomer moqueca sp. n.

Diagnosis: Assigned to the genus Arcovomer based on phylogenetic evidence and the presence of an arched vomer, a diagnostic osteologic synapomorphy of the genus sensu Carvalho (1954). This species is phenotypically cryptic in relation to A. passarellii.

Etymology: The specific name is a noun in apposition, derived from the African Bantu language, Kimbundu,  'mu’keka', meaning fish stew, or from the indigenous Tupi, 'pokeka' and 'moquem', meaning wrapped and grilled respectively. The word 'moqueca' subsequently emerged from the Portuguese. It is a Brazilian seafood stew, traditional from the state of Espírito Santo, and declared as a cultural asset, intangible heritage, of the state (Brazil 2015, Law No. 10.463). It honors the state of Espírito Santo, celebrating its traditions, peoples, cultural diversity, and rich culinary heritage. 

Arcovomer ubatuba sp. n. 

Diagnosis: Placed in the genus Arcovomer based on phylogenetic position. Externally cryptic relative to A. passarellii and A. moqueca sp. n., A. ubatuba sp. n. is reliably differentiated only through an integrative approach combining morphology, bioacoustics, and genetics.

Etymology: The specific epithet 'ubatuba' honours the municipality of Ubatuba, state of São Paulo, Brazil, where this species was first collected and which is its type locality. The name is derived from the indigenous Tupi language, 'uba' meaning “place” and 'tuba' meaning “canoes”, referring to the traditional gathering point of canoes during the Tamoio Confederation. The epithet is treated as a noun in apposition. This name relates to the species type locality and evokes the cultural and historical heritage of the people from Atlantic Forest coastal region. 

Felipe Silva de Andrade, Mariana L. Lyra, Délio Baêta & Luís Felipe Toledo. 2026. Unveiling Cryptic Diversity in the Genus Arcovomer (Anura: Microhylidae): description of Two New Species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. SALAMANDRA. 62(2); 77–96. [2026-05-15]

[Botany • 2026] Oreocharis nanlingensis (Gesneriaceae) • Integrating Morphological and Molecular Evidence Reveals a New Species and Two Synonyms in Oreocharis

 

Oreocharis nanlingensis  X.Z. Shi & Li H. Yang,

in Shi, Sun, Fu et Yang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.73380

ABSTRACT

The genus Oreocharis is a species-rich group within the family Gesneriaceae and represents an excellent model system for evolutionary studies. However, taxonomic understanding of this genus remains insufficient, resulting in several unresolved issues. In this study, we focus on two species groups within Oreocharis—the O. argyreia group and the O. auricula group—each of which presents distinct taxonomic challenges. To address these, we conducted detailed morphological comparisons and statistical analyses, along with phylogenetic analyses based on dense population-level sampling. Our results support abolishing the variety O. argyreia var. angustifolia within O. argyreia but establishing a new species of O. nanlingensis to accommodate specimens of this variety collected from the broader Nanling mountains region. In addition, our findings suggest that O. auricula var. denticulata should be treated as a synonym of O. magnidens. We provide final taxonomic treatments, amended descriptions, photographs, and a distribution map for the relevant taxa.

Oreocharis nanlingensis sp. nov. 

(A) Habit. (B) Flowers in top view. (C) Flowers in side view. (D) Flowers in front view. (E) Opened flower showing stamens, staminodes, and corolla inside. (F) Not yet dehiscing anthers. (G) Calyx. (H) Pistil. (I) Dehiscing fruit. 

 All Photos were taken from its holotype locality.

Oreocharis nanlingensis X.Z. Shi & Li H. Yang, sp. nov.   

 

Diagnosis Oreocharis nanlingensis is similar to O. crispata, but can be distinguished from the latter by its smooth leaf blade with entire margin (vs. rugose leaf blade with crispate and irregularly dentate margin), longer corolla tube (1.6–1.7 cm vs. ca 1.3 cm), and pistil (1.5–1.6 cm vs. ca 1.1 cm), and bilobed stigma (vs. disc-shaped).

 

Xi-Zuo Shi, Zhi-Xia Sun, Jia-Xin Fu and Li-Hua Yang. 2026. Integrating Morphological and Molecular Evidence Reveals a New Species and Two Synonyms in Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae). Ecology and Evolution. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.73380 [06 April 2026] 

 

Using both population-level phylogenetic analysis and morphological statistics, this study resolved several taxonomic problems within the genus Oreocharis. Our results support abolishing the variety O. argyreia var. angustifolia, establishing a new species O. nanlingensis, and treating O. auricula var. denticulata as a synonym of O. magnidens.

[Cnidaria • 2026] Chironex blakangmati • Chironex box jellyfishes (Cubozoa: Chirodropida) in Singapore: New Species, and Range Extension of C. indrasaksajiae

Chironex blakangmati

Iesa, Ames, Yap & Huang, 2026 

 RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 74

Abstract

 Two venomous box jellyfish species of the genus Chironex Southcott, 1956 (Cnidaria: Cubozoa: Chirodropida) were collected from Singapore’s coastal waters: Chironex indrasaksajiae Sucharitakul, 2017 and a novel species described herein as Chironex blakangmati, new species. Chironex indrasaksajiae was collected from both the Johor and Singapore Straits around mainland Singapore. Chironex blakangmati, new species, was collected from Sentosa Island along the Singapore Strait and is the fourth species described in the genus. While C. blakangmati’s volcano-shaped pedalial canal and tentacle number are similar to C. yamaguchii Lewis & Bentlage, 2009, its elongated, sharp-tipped velarial canals and DNA sequences distinguish it from other Chironex species. Comparisons of Chironex blakangmati, new species, with C. yamaguchii and C. fleckeri reveal novel morphological differences at the terminal end of the perradial lappet along the velarium edge, where C. blakangmati, new species, lacks velarial canals extending from the perradial lappet terminus. Juvenile Chironex yamaguchii specimens were examined and ontogenetic variations of velarial canals are herein reported. Preliminary cnidome analysis reveals eight types of nematocysts observed in C. blakangmati, new species, five types in C. indrasaksajiae, and five types in C. yamaguchii. Molecular phylogenetic reconstruction places C. blakangmati, new species, in a clade distinct from its congeners, as sister group to C. yamaguchii based on 16S rRNA gene analysis but diverging earlier than the clade comprising C. yamaguchii and C. indrasaksajiae based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene analysis for which sequence data are comparatively limited. Understanding the biodiversity and seasonality of venomous cubomedusae will help mitigate the risk they pose to human health and safety during maritime activities. 

Key words. 16S rRNA, COI barcoding, marine biodiversity, phylogenetic analysis, Southeast Asia, venomous

Chironex blakangmati, new species, from Singapore.
A, live individual (paratype, ZRC.CNI.1462), lateral perradius view; B, live individual (holotype, ZRC.CNI.3014), lateral perradius view; C, cockscomb gastric saccule (sac); D, gastric cirri (gc); E, rhopalial niche front view; F, rhopalial niche side view (paratype, ZRC.CNI.1462); G, rhopalial niche side view (holotype, ZRC.CNI.3014); H, tentacle contracted with alternating brown dark bands; I, tentacle stretched; J, preserved tentacle with hollow cross section (arrow); K, pedalium with volcano pedalial canal bend (pcb) marked by arrow; L, U-shaped alternating tentacle pattern with gap marked by an arrow; M, adradial positions (ad) marked by arrows, and rhopalial niche at perradial position (per); N, gastric saccules (sac) surrounding cruciform manubrium (man); O, velarium at perradial position with frenulum (fre) arrowed, lappet terminating in simple triangular tip; P, velarium with candelabrum velarial canal pattern (holotype, ZRC.CNI.3014). rh = rhopalium, rhO = rhopalial ostium, co = convex boundary.

Chironex blakangmati, new species 

Diagnosis. Chironex with conical to cuboidal bell. Seven tentacles per pedalium, branching U-shaped alternating. Pedalial canal bend volcano shaped. Tips of velarial canals sharp towards velarial margin (Fig. 11D), with simple triangular tip at edge of velarium in perradial position (Fig. 3O & Fig. 12). Absence of velarial canals at perradial position where frenulum tapers off (Fig. 12D). 

Etymology. This species is named using Bahasa Melayu, the Austronesian language spoken in the region and the national language of Singapore, for Sentosa Island from which the animal was collected. Sentosa Island was historically referred to as “Pulau Blakang Mati”, meaning “Island of Death Behind” and, as such, “blakangmati” in denoting the geographic location is a noun in apposition. 

Iffah Iesa, Cheryl Lewis Ames, Nicholas Wei Liang Yap and Danwei Huang. 2026. Chironex box jellyfishes (Cnidaria: Cubozoa: Chirodropida) in Singapore: Chironex blakangmati, new species, and range extension of C. indrasaksajiae. RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 74: 383–402. DOI: 10.26107/RBZ-2026-0026 [15 May 2026]