[Botany • 2026] Saraca laotica (Malvaceae) • A New Species from Laos

  

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad.,

in Tagane, Phengmala, Kongxaisavath, Sengthong, Yamamoto, Phonepaseuth, Pham, Dang et Souladeth, 2026. 

ຄໍາລາວ  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.1 

 

Abstract

A new species of Saraca (Fabaceae-Detarioideae), S. laotica, is described and illustrated from Laos. It is characterized by leaflets with (9–)11–20 pairs of secondary veins, relatively larger, persistent and showy bracts of 1.4–3.3 × 0.6–0.9 cm, calyx tube of 27–36 mm, 4 stamens, anthers 1.9 mm long, by which combination, it is clearly distinguished from previously known species in the genus. Information on its habitat, phenology, vernacular name, and preliminary conservation assessment are also provided.

Detarioideae, endemic, Fabales, Leguminosae, limestones, plant taxonomy, Eudicots

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad.
A. Flowering branch; B & C. Portion of abaxial leaf surface; D. Hollowed twig inhabited by ants. E. Nest entrance on twig; F. Base of leaf showing petiole and petiolules; G. Young inflorescence; H & I. Bracts; J. portion of inflorescence, showing bracts and flower buds; K. Full-blooming inflorescence; L. Flowers, lateral view; M. Mouth of calyx tube showing ovary and filaments base; N. Bracteole (adaxial side); O. Anthers, adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) sides; P. Stigma; Q. Infructescence; R. Seeds.

Scale bars C, O & P = 1 mm, H = 5 mm, N = 2 mm, R = 1 cm. 

Photographed A & H from Tagane et al. Z1615, B, C, F, G, I–Q from Tagane et al. Z3281, D & E from Tagane et al. Z2639, R from Tagane et al. Z3281 (above three) and Z2639 (bottom), taken by S. Tagane.

  

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad., sp. nov.  

 

Diagnosis:—Similar to Saraca griffithiana and S. declinata in having persistent bracts and 4 stamens, but distinguished from the former by its midrib sunken adaxially (vs. prominent in S. griffithiana), longer bracts (1.4–3.3 cm long vs. shorter than 0.5 cm), and longer calyx tube (27–36 mm vs. 12–18 mm), and from the latter by more leaflets [5–9 pairs vs. 3–5(–7) pairs in S. declinata], more secondary veins [(9–)11–20 pairs vs. (6–)8–10(–12) pairs], larger bracts (1.4–3.3 × 0.6–0.9 cm vs. 0.3–1.2 × 0.1–0.7 cm), and longer anthers (1.9–2.2 mm vs. 0.75 mm long).

Etymology:—The specific epithet “laotica” refers to the country Laos, where the new species was discovered. 

Vernacular name:—ຄໍາລາວ (Kham Lao) (proposed here). In Lao, “Kham” means golden, referring to the color of the flowers, and “Lao” is the country name, indicating the locality where this species is found.

Shuichiro TAGANE, Kajonesuk PHENGMALA, Deuanta KONGXAISAVATH, Anousone SENGTHONG, Takenori YAMAMOTO, Phongphayboun PHONEPASEUTH, Quoc Trong PHAM, Van-Son DANG and Phetlasy SOULADETH. 2026. Saraca laotica (Fabaceae), A New Species from Laos. Phytotaxa. 749(1); 1-9. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.1 [2026-03-25]

 facebook.com/groups/168567307206461/permalink/2011536822909491/

[Arachnida • 2026] “The Cordyceps Spider”: Taczanowskia waska sp. nov. (Araneae: Araneidae), A New spider Species and A Novel Case of Mimicry of an Araneopathogenic Fungus (Cordycipitaceae: Gibellula)

Taczanowskia waska

Díaz-Guevara, Bentley & Dupérré, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.5.4 

Researchgate.net/publication/401254813

Abstract 

Herein, we describe a new species of the rare spider genus Taczanowskia Keyserling, 1879 (Araneae: Araneidae), Taczanowskia waska sp. nov. (♀) from the Ecuadorian Amazon. Additionally, we discuss its unique fungal mimicry, comment on Taczanowskia ecology, and provide an updated taxonomic key for females of the genus. The importance of this discovery extends well beyond the description of a novel taxon, representing the first reported case of Arachnid mimicry of an araneopathogenic fungus. Finally, we discuss the application of citizen science to collecting ecological and biogeographical data on arachnids and its potential use for describing new taxa. 

Araneae, fungal-mimicry, arachnids, mycelium, Amazon, llanganates-Sangay Connectivity Corridor

Taczanowskia waska sp. nov., female holotype, alive.
 a, dorsal view. B, second dorsal view. C, posterior dorsalview. D, frontal view. e, posterior dorsal view with an ovisac. 

 Records of spiders with apparent fungal mimicry.
a, Taczanowskia waska sp. nov. from Pastaza, ecuador (© David R.Díaz-Guevara). B, unknown araneidae species from Huong National Park, vietnam, 2013 (© Paul Bertner).
C, D, an undescribed species of Acantharachne from uganda, 0.390, 33.113 (© Frank Deschandol).
E, Exechocentrus lancearius from Madagascar, -18.966, 48.592 (© Artur Tomaszek). F, Mastophora leucacantha from coastal Brazil, -23.959, -46.190 (© Thiago Gonçalves Coronado Antunes).

David R. DÍAZ-GUEVARA, Alexander Griffin BENTLEY and Nadine DUPÉRRÉ. 2026. “The Cordyceps Spider”: Taczanowskia waska sp. nov. (Araneae: Araneidae), A New spider Species and A Novel Case of Mimicry of an Araneopathogenic Fungus (Cordycipitaceae: Gibellula).  Zootaxa. 5760(5); 563-576. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.5.4 [2026-02-26]

 Researchgate.net/publication/401254813_Taczanowskia_waska_sp_nov_a_new_spider_species_and_a_novel_case_of_mimicry_of_an_araneopathogenic_fungus

 instagram.com/waska.amazonia

 instagram.com/bentley7_7 

[Arachnida • 2026] Mogrus shushka & M. pune • Two New Mogrus Species (Araneae: Salticidae) from India

[A–F] Mogrus shushka Tripathi, Kadam & Prajapati, 
Mogrus pune Tripathi, Kulkarni & Kadam, 

in Tripathi, Kadam, Asha, Kulkarni, Jangid, Prajapati et Sudhikumar, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3249 

 Abstract

This study provides taxonomic contributions to the genus Mogrus Simon, 1882 from India, with the descriptions of two new species: Mogrus shushka Tripathi, Kadam & Prajapati sp. nov. and Mogrus pune Tripathi, Kulkarni & Kadam sp. nov. Furthermore, the male of Mogrus rajasthanensis Caleb, Chatterjee, Tyagi, Kundu & Kumar, 2017 is described for the first time, while Mogrus larisae Logunov, 1995 is newly reported from India. We provide detailed morphological descriptions and images, as well as discuss variations in female genitalia within the genus.

Keywords: jumping spiders, genitalia variation, semi-arid ecosystems, species record, taxonomy

Field photographs of Mogrus shushka Tripathi, Kadam & Prajapati, 2026 sp. nov.
A–D. Holotype, ♂ (NRC-AA-0640). E–F. Paratype, ♀ (NRC-AA-0641).

Field photographs of Mogrus pune Tripathi, Kulkarni & Kadam sp. nov.
A–B.Holotype, ♂  (NRC-AA-0645). C–D.Paratype, ♀ (NRC-AA-0646).

Mogrus shushka Tripathi, Kadam & Prajapati sp. nov. 

Mogrus pune Tripathi, Kulkarni & Kadam sp. nov.  

Rishikesh Tripathi, Gautam Kadam, Theresa Joy Asha, Atharva Kulkarni, Ashish Kumar Jangid, Dhruv A. Prajapati, Ambalaparambil Vasu Sudhikumar. 2026. Discoveries of Two New Mogrus Species (Araneae: Salticidae) and notable records from India. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1048(1); 223–244. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3249 

[Botany • 2026] Asplenium paucipinnatum (Aspleniaceae) • A New fern Species from southern Thailand, based on morphological and molecular data

Asplenium paucipinnatum  K.W.Xu, Li Bing Zhang & Pollawatn, 

in Xu, Pollawatn, L. Zhang, Zhou et L.-B. Zhang, 2026.   

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.173645

Abstract

Asplenium paucipinnatum, a new fern species from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, is described. Morphologically, it closely resembles A. micantifrons in having short-creeping and radial rhizome steles, 1-pinnate laminae, deeply incised pinnae on the basiscopic margin, and sori arranged in two rows close to the costae. However, A. paucipinnatum is readily distinguished by having fewer lateral pinnae (< 14 pairs), obliquely rhombic pinnae with acute apices and obtuse marginal teeth, contrasting the more numerous pinnae (> 15 pairs), lanceolate pinnae with acuminate apices, and acute teeth in A. micantifrons. Phylogenetic analyses based on multiple plastid DNA regions (atpB, rbcL, rps4, rps4-trnS, trnL, and trnL-F) support A. paucipinnatum as a distinct lineage, forming a sister relationship with a clade containing A. lepturus and A. contiguum. The combination of morphological and molecular evidence supports the recognition of this new taxon. Ecological notes, geographic distribution, and a comparison with related species are also provided.

Key words: Asplenium aethiopicum clade, fern phylogeny, Southeast Asian fern flora, taxonomy

Asplenium paucipinnatum. A. Habit; B. Abaxial view of lamina; C. Abaxial view of pinnae showing the venation on the pinnae; D. Showing the lamina apices deeply pinnatifid and becoming gradually decrescent upwards; E. Adaxial view of Pinnae at middle portion of the laminae; F. Short-creeping rhizome; G. Rhizome scales.

(Voucher specimen: Li Bing Zhang, Liang Zhang, R. Pollawatn & X. M. Zhou 10976).

Asplenium paucipinnatum K.W.Xu, Li Bing Zhang & Pollawatn, sp. nov.

 

Description. Asplenium paucipinnatum resembles A. micantifrons (Tuyama) Tuyama ex H.Ohba by its short creeping and radial rhizomes, 1-pinnate laminae, pinnae deeply incised at basiscopic side of margin, and sori borne in 2 rows closely set along to the costa, but the former has lateral pinnae fewer than 14 pairs, pinnae oblique rhombic, pinna apex acute, and marginal teeth obtuse. In contrast, A. micantifrons has lateral pinnae more than 15 pairs, pinnae lanceolate, pinna apex acuminate, and marginal teeth acute.

Ke-Wang Xu, Rossarin Pollawatn, Liang Zhang, Xin-Mao Zhou and Li-Bing Zhang. 2026. Asplenium paucipinnatum (Aspleniaceae), A New fern Species from southern Thailand, based on morphological and molecular data. PhytoKeys. 272: 159-167. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.173645 [02 Apr 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Phyllodytes gravata • Another Piece in the Puzzle: A New Species of Phyllodytes Wagler, 1830 (Anura: Hylidae) from the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, northeastern Brazil

 Phyllodytes gravata 

Santos, Rodrigues & Dias, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3235 

Abstract

We describe Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov., a new species of bromeligenous treefrog from the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, Brazil. The new species is characterised by its small body size (males 19.5–22.0 mm snout-vent length; female 23.5 mm), a rounded snout with an apical tubercle, an inconspicuous row of tubercles along the tarsus, with a single prominent tubercle at the tibiotarsal articulation, a dorsolateral brown stripe, and an advertisement call composed of long series of pulsed notes (22–34 notes/call; call duration 5.2–7.3 s; dominant frequency 2.75–3.83 kHz). The species is currently known from only two nearby localities within the Central Corridor of the Atlantic Forest (CCAF), in the municipality of Porto Seguro, district of Trancoso, Bahia, a major tourist destination, where it inhabits bromeliads in sandy-soil ecosystems known as mussunungas. Its apparently microendemic distribution and strict association with bromeliads render it vulnerable to several anthropogenic threats, such as bromeliad harvesting, increasing tourism, urbanisation, and agriculture. This discovery underscores the persistent hidden diversity of the CCAF and reinforces the urgent need to protect its highly special microhabitats.

Keywords: Taxonomy, Amphibia, Bioacoustic, Bromeliad, Conservation

In-life photographs of Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov.
  A.  Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23915). B. Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23885).
C.  Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23884) Dorsal view. D.  Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23884) ventral view.
E. Aechmea lamarchei Mez; F. Mussununga, the natural habitat at the type locality.

A. Map showing thedistribution of Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov. and its sister species, P. amadoi and Phyllodytes sp. 7. in southern Bahia, northeastern Brazil. 
B. Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov., paratype, ♂ (MZUESC 23915). C. Phyllodytes amadoi, ♂ (MZUESC 24030 – photograph by  Tadeu T.  Medeiros). D. Phyllodytes sp. 7, ♂.

Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov.

Laisa Souza dos Santos, Miguel Trefaut  Rodrigues and Iuri Ribeiro Dias. 2026. Another Piece in the Puzzle: A New Species of Phyllodytes Wagler, 1830 (Anura, Hylidae) from the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, northeastern Brazil. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1048(1); 62–83. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3235 [2026-03-27]

[Cnidaria • 2026] Chrysogorgia pugnioides, Iridogorgia acutisclerita, I. levisquama • Systematics and Biogeography of Chrysogorgiidae (Anthozoa: Octocorallia) from the Indian Ocean: discovery of New Species on Deep-sea Ridges

Iridogorgia acutisclerita Ge, Zhang & Xu,

in Ge, N. Xu, Hu, Tian, Li, Y. Xu, Wang, Zhang et Q. Xu, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.182492 

Abstract

Species of the family Chrysogorgiidae are distributed worldwide in deep-sea environments. However, most recorded species of this family were from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, with only a few reports from the Indian Ocean, particularly from ridge regions. This study describes three new species and reports two known species from Indian Ocean ridges, integrating morphological and molecular analyses (mtMutS and 28S rDNA). Chrysogorgia pugnioides Ge, Hu & Xu, sp. nov. is characterized by fist-like polyps; warty spindles in tentacles; flat and irregular spindles and elongate scales in the polyp body wall; and slender and smooth scales with toothed to irregular edges in the coenenchyme. Iridogorgia acutisclerita Ge, Zhang & Xu, sp. nov. resembles I. splendens but differs by possessing needles and pointed elongate scales in the polyp body wall. Iridogorgia levisquama Ge, Zhang & Xu, sp. nov. is differentiated from the congeneric I. squarrosa by slender and smooth scales with sharp ends in the polyp body wall and needles with fine wartiness in the tentacles. Parachrysogorgia chryseis and Metallogorgia melanotrichos are reported as new records for the Indian Ocean ridges. These findings expand the known biodiversity and biogeographic range of Chrysogorgiidae in the Indian Ocean ridges.

Key Words: Carlsberg Ridge, Chrysogorgiidae, Ninetyeast Ridge, phylogeny, taxonomy

Chrysogorgia pugnioides Ge, Hu & Xu, sp. nov.  

Iridogorgia acutisclerita Ge, Zhang & Xu, sp. nov. 

Iridogorgia levisquama Ge, Zhang & Xu, sp. nov.

The external morphology of Iridogorgia acutisclerita Ge, Zhang & Xu, sp. nov.
 A. Holotype FIO-IND72-JLBEN22309 in situ; B. Paratype FIO-IND72-JLBEN22402 in situ; C–E. Holotype FIO-IND72-JLBEN22309, paratype FIO-IND72-JLBEN22402, and FIO-IND72-JLBEN225511 after collection;
F. Single polyp under a light microscope; G. Single polyp under SEM; H. A part of the tentacle under SEM; I. A part of the branch under a light microscope; J. A part of the branch with epidermal tissue removed under SEM; K. A part of the branch with epidermal tissue under SEM.

Scale bars: 20 cm (C–E); 1 mm (F, I); 500 μm (G, K); 250 μm (H, J).

 Meiling Ge, Ningxia Xu, Xuying Hu, Xin Tian, Xinlong Li, Yu Xu, Zongling Wang, Xuelei Zhang and Qingzeng Xu. 2026. Systematics and Biogeography of Chrysogorgiidae from the Indian Ocean: discovery of New Species on Deep-sea Ridges. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(2): 621-647.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.182492 [07 Apr 2026]

[Invertebrate • 2025] Alloscopus sago & A. jantapasoae • Two New Species of the Genus Alloscopus Börner, 1906 (Collembola: Orchesellidae: Heteromurinae) from southern Thailand

Alloscopus sago Jantarit & Manee, sp. nov.  
   A. jantapasoae Jantarit, Nilsai & Manee, sp. nov.

in Jantarit, Manee, Nilsai, Mitpuangchon et Pimsai, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1245.148100 

Abstract 

Two new species of Alloscopus Börner (Orchesellidae: Heteromurinae) are discovered and described from southern Thailand. The first species, Alloscopus sago Jantarit & Manee, sp. nov. was found in a sago palm forest (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.), a true sago palm species native to Southeast Asia and typically located in lowland freshwater swamps in Phatthalung Province. The second species, A. jantapasoae Jantarit, Nilsai & Manee, sp. nov. was sampled from a dark zone within a cave environment in Trang Province. Both species are characterized by the absence of eyes and mucronal spines, the presence of a PAO, two rows of smooth chaetae on the manubrium, and dental spines. However, they differ in several morphological features, including the number of macrochaetae on the ‘A’ series of the head, Th. II and Abd. IV; labial basis chaetotaxy; the presence of smooth chaetae on tibiotarsi; the number of chaetae on both the anterior and posterior ventral tube; and the number of the inter-teeth on the claw. The discovery of these two new species increases the total number of Alloscopus species recorded in Thailand to six species with a total of 17 recognized species globally. An updated key to the world species of Alloscopus is also provided.   

Key words: Cave, chaetotaxy, Entomobryoidea, sago palm, taxonomy

Alloscopus sago Jantarit & Manee, sp. nov.   

 A. jantapasoae Jantarit, Nilsai & Manee, sp. nov.

 Sopark Jantarit, Nongnapat Manee, Areeruk Nilsai, Natrada Mitpuangchon and Awatsaya Pimsai. 2025. Two New Species of the Genus Alloscopus Börner, 1906 (Collembola, Orchesellidae, Heteromurinae) from southern Thailand. ZooKeys. 1245: 357-381. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1245.148100 

 

 

[Botany • 2021] Dionysia jamzadiae (Primulaceae) • A New Species from the Fars Province of Iran

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, 

in Lidén, Irvine, Alvén et Mehregan, 2021. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/EJB.2021.396

ABSTRACT

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, from the east Zagros Mountains, Fars, Iran, is described as new to science. It belongs in section Dionysiopsis and is similar to D. oreodoxa Bornm. but differs in, for example, its sparsely glandular hairy or almost glabrous corolla with emarginated lobes (densely non-glandular pubescent with entire lobes in D. oreodoxa). Dionysia jamzadiae is known from two places and is quite abundant at the type locality.

Keywords: New species, Fars, Iran, Dionysia

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, sp. nov.
Brevistylous (A) and longistylous (B) plants in the type locality.

 Photograph: M. Lidén.

 

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, sp. nov.

Differs from Dionysia oreodoxa Bornm., to which it is most similar, in its sparsely glandular hairy or almost glabrous corolla with emarginate lobes (versus densely non-glandular pubescent with entire lobes).

 

 

M. Lidén, M. Irvine, A. Alvén and I. Mehregan. 2021. Dionysia jamzadiae (Primulaceae), A New Species from the Fars Province of Iran. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 78; DOI: doi.org/10.24823/EJB.2021.396 [2021-12-02]

Researchgate.net/publication/356756037_DIONYSIA_JAMZADIAE_A_NEW_SPECIES_FROM_THE_FARS_PROVINCE_OF_IRAN

[Herpetology • 2026] Nymphargus dajomesae • A Secret from A Hidden World: A New Glassfrog of the Genus Nymphargus (Anura: Centrolenidae) from Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador

 

 Nymphargus dajomesae  

Masache-Sarango, Cisneros-Heredia & Ron, 2026

 Dajomes Glassfrog | Rana de cristal de Dajomes ||  DOI: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0345097 

Abstract

The genus Nymphargus is the most speciose of the family Centrolenidae with 44 species. In this study, we describe a new species of Nymphargus and present an updated phylogeny. The new species is sister to an undescribed species, also from SW Ecuador, and both belong to a clade that includes N. buenaventura, N. cariticommatus, N. griffithsi, N. lasgralarias, N. sucre, and N. wileyi. The new species likely originated during the Pliocene (~4.5 Mya) and is characterized by a uniformly green dorsum lacking spots, shagreened dorsal skin, and white peritonea covering the esophagus and stomach. Our phylogeny provides, for the first time, the phylogenetic position of N. buenaventura. The new species was discovered at Reserva Biológica El Quimi, during expeditions by the QCAZ Museum in 2017 and 2018. Most amphibian species found at that location were undescribed, indicating that some regions of Cordillera del Cóndor host amphibian communities that have remained as “hidden worlds” for biological exploration.

Live holotype of Nymphargus dajomesae sp. nov. QCAZ-A 68586.
(A) dorsal view, (B) ventral view, (C) Frontal view and (D) lateral view.

Photos by BIOWEB-Museo QCAZ-A archive.

Nymphargus dajomesae sp. nov.

Proposed Spanish common name: Rana de cristal de Dajomes

Proposed English common name: Dajomes Glassfrog

Definition: Nymphargus dajomesae differs from all other Centrolenidae by the following combination of characters: (1) dentigerous process of vomer and vomerine teeth absent; (2) snout truncated in dorsal and lateral views; loreal region slightly concave; (3) tympanic annulus, lower ¾ visible, upper border covered by supratympanic fold; tympanic membrane colored as surrounding skin; (4) dorsal skin shagreen with microspicules; (5) ventral skin granular; pericloacal area granular, enameled; pair of sub-cloacal warts present; (6) parietal peritoneum white, iridophores covering almost entirely (condition P4); peritonea covering heart, esophagus, stomach and kidneys covered by iridophores (V2); all other peritonea clear; (7) liver lobed and hepatic peritoneum clear (condition H0); (8) humeral spines absent in adult males; (9) webbing absent between fingers I and II, basal between fingers II and III; reduced between outer fingers, webbing formula III (3– –21/2) IV; (10) foot webbing formula: ...

Etymology: The specific epithet is a noun in the genitive case honoring Neisi Dajomes, the first Ecuadorian woman to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games (Tokyo 2020, women’s 76 kg weightlifting). In addition, she has won gold medals at the World and Pan American Weightlifting Championships, and the Pan American, Bolivarian and South American games.

Habitat at the type locality, Reserva Biológica El Quimi.
(A) Slow-flowing blackwater stream rich in tannins.
(B) Surrounding vegetation composed by dense shrubs, bromeliads, and mosses.

 

Mylena V. Masache-Sarango, Diego F. Cisneros-Heredia and Santiago R. Ron. 2026. A Secret from A Hidden World: A New Glassfrog of the Genus Nymphargus (Anura: Centrolenidae) from Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador. PLoS One. 21(4): e0345097. DOI: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0345097 [April 8, 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Sarcaulus paujilensis (Sapotaceae: Chyrsophylloideae) • Morphological and Genetic Evidence for the Sarcaulus brasiliensis complex reveals A New Species from the Rainforests of the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia

 

Sarcaulus paujilensis M.A.Jaram. & T. D.Penn.,

in Jaramillo, Pennington, Aymard-Corredor et Majin-Ladino, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.273.175192 

Abstract

Sarcaulus is a small genus of neotropical trees in the Sapotaceae. Most specimens in herbaria are identified as S. brasiliensis, a species recognized from Costa Rica to Bolivia. Morphological characteristics and molecular sequence data help us to identify a new species of Sarcaulus with hermaphrodite flowers from the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia. A complete description, an illustration, a Lancaster plate, information about habitat, phenology, conservation status, and the species name etymology are presented. In addition, a key for identifying Sarcaulus species is provided. Sarcaulus paujilensis is remarkable for its bisexual flowers, in an otherwise predominantly unisexual (plant dioecious) genus. This new finding increases the number of species of the genus in the Neotropical flora to six. More fieldwork and molecular phylogenetics are needed to establish many new taxa.

 

Key words: Chocó Region, Ericales, Flora Neotropical, Flora of Colombia

 

Sarcaulus paujilensis.
A. Flowering branch; B. Seed; C. Fruiting branch; D. Immature fruit; E. Mature fruit; F, G. Transversal section of fresh fruit.

Photos by A. Lizette Sierra, Paula Lara, and Luisa Suarez; B–G. Andrés F. Majín-Ladino.

Sarcaulus paujilensis M.A.Jaram. & T. D.Penn., sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Sarcaulus paujilensis resembles S. oblatus, however, this new species can be differentiated from the latter by having leaves oblanceolate to oblong (vs. elliptic to narrowly oblong-elliptic), petiole 1.7–2.5 cm long (vs. 8–15 mm long), flowers paired (vs. fascicles 5-many-flowered), bisexual (vs unisexual), sepals 5–6 mm (vs. 2.5–3 mm), staminodes ca. 2 mm long (vs. 0.5–1 mm), ovary 1–4-locular, shortly sericeous (vs. 4­5-locular, minutely adpressed puberulent), fruits ca. 50 × 25–30 mm, ovoid (vs. 22–25 × 30–32 mm, oblate), and seeds 25–28 mm long (vs. seeds 17–18 mm long).

M. Alejandra Jaramillo, Terence D. Pennington, Gerardo A. Aymard-Corredor and Andrés F. Majin-Ladino. 2026. Morphological and Genetic Evidence for the Sarcaulus brasiliensis complex (Sapotaceae, Chyrsophylloideae) reveals A New Species from the Rainforests of the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia. PhytoKeys. 273: 37-54. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.273.175192  [09 Apr 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Scottmoria umbonata (Lecythidaceae) • A New Species from Panama’s Caribbean Rainforests

Scottmoria umbonata S.A.Mori ex J.E.Bat., 

in Batista-Guerra, Campos-Pineda et Carrión, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.3.1

 

Abstract

A new species, Scottmoria umbonata, from wet Caribbean forests on the slopes of Sierra Llorona, Province of Colón, Panama, is described and illustrated. We provide a comprehensive description of the new taxon, discuss its affinities with similar species, and include line drawings, field photographs, a distribution map, and a preliminary conservation status assessment.

Bertholletia clade, Endemism, Scottmoria complex, Sierra Llorona, Taxonomy, Eudicots

Plate comparing Scottmoria umbonata (A–E) and Scottmoria woodsoniana (F–J).
Scottmoria umbonata: A. Laminated grey bark. B. Abaxial leaf blade, showing 1–2 intersecondary veins not impressed to slightly impressed adaxially. C. Inflorescence. D. Close up of bud, showing calyx lobes and pedicel-hypantium zone. E. Lateral view of mature fruit.
S. woodsoniana: F. Smooth reddish-brown bark. G. Abaxial leaf blade, showing 1–2 intersecondary veins strongly impressed adaxially. H. Inflorescence. I. Close up of bud, showing calyx lobes and pedicel-hypantium zone. J. Lateral view of mature fruit.

(A, E, J. Batista et al. 2174; B–D, Galdames et al. 6359; F, I, H, J. Batista 1449; G, J. Batista 1455; J, J. Batista 1659). Photos by Juvenal Batista and Carmen Galdames.

Scottmoria umbonata.
A. Apical and lateral views of flowers. B. Androecial hood in cross section showing yellow staminodes and nectaries. C. Androecial hood in cross section showing pink staminodes and yellow nectaries. D. Clustered or agglomerated inflorescences. E. Agglomerated inflorescences showing buds, robust rachis and lateral view of flowers. F. Rachis of inflorescences in groups of 5–6 per node.

(A, B, D–F, J. Batista et al. 2174; C, J. Batista et al. 2173). 

Photos by Juvenal Batista.

Scottmoria umbonata S.A.Mori ex J.E.Bat., sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—Scottmoria umbonata and Scottmoria woodsoniana (Dwyer) (1965:362) Cornejo (2025: 489) are morphologically closely related species due to their similar flower color and depressed-globose fruits, but S. umbonata differs by presenting leaf blades with secondary veins slightly impressed adaxially (vs. strongly impressed in S. woodsoniana); 1–2 intersecondary veins not impressed to slightly impressed adaxially (vs. strongly impressed); leaf blade base cuneate, acute to slightly attenuate (vs. obtuse to rounded or truncate); inflorescences 2–5 per node, clustered, sometimes 1 per node (vs. solitary or 1 per node); rachis 0.5–3 (–7) cm long, thick and robust (vs. 2–8.5 cm, thin and slender); hypanthium verrucose with crowded lenticels (vs. smooth with scattered lenticels); sepals widely ovate (vs. ovate to oblong); flowers with style finely grooved (vs. smooth); style obconical (vs. columnar); stigma long-apiculate (vs. rounded to short-apiculate); mature fruits 6–7 × 3.5–8 cm (vs. up to 2.5 × 6 cm); supra-calycine zone 1.5–2.5 cm long (vs. 1–1.5 cm); the operculum with well-developed umbo from immature fruit to maturity (vs. convex operculum to poorly-developed); seeds 2–13 per mature fruit (vs. 5–6), with a flattened funicle (vs. thickened).

Etymology:—The epithet “umbonata” means having a highly developed umbo or raised central protuberance that persists from immature to mature fruit. 

Vernacular name:—The people of the Santa Rita and Sierra Llorona communities call this species “Coquito de potrero”. Its vernacular name refers to its peculiar pyxidium and the fact that it is one of the few trees that survives in pastures (“potreros”) that were once primary forests its hard wood, short height, and seeds that are edible for cattle are among the reasons why it is not cut down in the area.

Juvenal E. BATISTA-GUERRA, Ernesto CAMPOS-PINEDA and Juan F. CARRIÓN. 2026. Scottmoria umbonata sp. nov. (Lecythidaceae) from Panama’s Caribbean rainforests.  Phytotaxa. 750(3); 147-156. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.3.1 [2026-04-07]

[Botany • 2026] Rhododendron yombuwurii (Ericaceae, subgen. Vireya) • A New orange-flowered Species from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia

  

Rhododendron yombuwurii Hutabarat, Bandjolu & Zulfadli,  

in Hutabarat, Zulfadli, Bandjolu, Basrul, Hariri, Senatama et Larekeng, 2026.

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2170  

Abstract

A new species of Rhododendron subgenus Vireya from Central Sulawesi, Rhododendron yombuwurii, is described. The species is known from material originating from the Tokorondo Range, northwest of Lake Poso, and is currently cultivated at a lower elevation near Saluopa Waterfall, where it grows epiphytically and produces small, bright orange flowers. We provide a detailed morphological description, comparative microscopic observations, notes on distribution, habitat and ecology, and a preliminary conservation assessment. Phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear ribosomal ITS region support the placement of the species within subgenus Vireya and its distinction from morphologically similar taxa.

Keyword: Flora, Malesia, Mountain flora, Poso, Rhododendron celebicum, Schistanthe, Tokorondo, Wallacea

A. Rhododendron yombuwurii thriving and flowering as an epiphyte beneath the canopy of a small tree in Tentena, Central Sulawesi; B. The fresh material of the type specimen PWH1635; C. Flower bud of R. yombuwurii.

(Photographed by P.W.K. Hutabarat)

Morphology of Rhododendron yombuwurii Hutabarat, Bandjolu & Zulfadli, sp. nov.
 A. flowering stem; B. Semi–erect inflorescence; C. Flower bud; D. Glabrescent adaxial leaf; E. Scaly petiole; F. Scaly abaxial leaf; G. Scales on abaxial leaf; H. Narrow funnel–shaped corolla; I. Corolla lobes and stamen position; J. Corolla (inside); K. Androecium and gynoecium; L. Stamen; M. Gynoecium; N. Immature fruit; O. Laxly scaly ovary

 (Photographed by Zulfadli)

Rhododendron yombuwurii Hutabarat, Bandjolu & Zulfadli, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Rhododendron yombuwurii is most closely allied to R. celebicum (Blume) DC. (de Candolle, 1839), and shows affinity to R. impressopunctatum J.J.Sm. (Smith, 1932), and R. vidalii subsp. brachystemon Argent (Argent, 2003). It differs from R. celebicum by its raised midrib and lateral veins (vs. slightly impressed), semi-erect to horizontal inflorescences (vs. pendulous), glabrous calyx externally (vs. densely scaly), and much smaller orange corolla, 17–22 × 12–16 mm (vs. 35–46 × 20–25 mm, pink to red). From R. impressopunctatum it differs in having smaller leaves, fewer-flowered inflorescences, smaller orange corollas, and filaments clustered at the corolla mouth rather than exserted. The species further differs from R. vidalii subsp. brachystemon by its scaly young twigs becoming glabrescent, longer leaves with raised veins, glabrous calyx externally, smaller orange corolla, and a sparsely scaly to nearly glabrescent ovary. Additional distinguishing characters are summarized in Table 1. ...

A. Type locality of Rhododendron yombuwurii in the Tokorondo Range, Poso Regency, Central Sulawesi. The red dot marks Saluopa Waterfall, where the type specimen was collected as a cultivated plant, while the yellow circle indicates Petirorano, the presumed original source of the species.
B. Saluopa Waterfall, a lower montane site at 560 m elevation, characterized by a cool and humid climate.

Prima Wahyu Kusuma Hutabarat, Zulfadli, Kurniawan Palindondaya Bandjolu, Basrul, Muhammad Rifqi Hariri, Andhika Senatama and Siti Halimah Larekeng. 2026. Rhododendron yombuwurii (Ericaceae), A New orange-flowered Species of subgenus Vireya from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia.  Taiwania. 71(2); 277-283 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.277 [2026 March 28] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2170  

[Botany • 2026] Lobelia janardhananii (Lobeliaceae) • A New Species from the Western Ghats of India

 

Lobelia janardhananii K.M.P.Kumar & Sunil, 

in Sunil, Prabhukumar, Sivadas, Sanilkumar et Robi, 2026.

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2165 

Abstract

A new species of Lobelia, L. janardhananii K.M.P.Kumar & Sunil is described from Kerala, India. It resembles Lobelia heyneana Schult. in herbaceous habit and axillary solitary flowers but differs from the latter by leaf shape, texture, flower length, compressed or ancipitous pedicel, characters of calyx lobe, the colour of corolla tube and lobe, size and colour of stamens, stylar length and seeds. A detailed description and photographs are provided for the identification of the species.

Keyword: Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala, Lobelia heyneana, Lobelia janardhananii, perennial, taxonomy

Lobelia janardhananii sp. nov.
 A–C. Flowering shoot, D. C.S. of stem, E. Leaf adaxial side, F. Leaf abaxial side.

Lobelia janardhananii sp. nov.
A. Flower, B. Pedicel with bracteoles, C. Calyx, D. Calyx lobe, E. Corolla split open, F. Staminal column with anthers, G. Anthers, H. Style and stigma, H1. Stigma closeup view, I. Immature capsule, J. Seeds.

Lobelia janardhananii K.M.P.Kumar & Sunil, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Lobelia janardhananii sp. nov. is morphologically similar to L. heyneana, but differs in the rhomboid, elliptic or ovate leaves, 1.5–4 × 0.4–2 cm, attenuate base (vs. elliptic to sub-orbicular, 0.6–0.8 × 0.4– 0.8 cm; base truncate and decurrent); flowers 14–17 mm long (vs. 8.7–9.2 mm long); pedicel compressed or ancipitous, bibracteolate near middle (vs. trigonous, bracteoles absent); sepals toothed, hirsute abaxially (vs. entire, glabrous on both sides); corolla tube blue (vs. tube white); upper lip 3–4 mm long, whitish-blue; lower lip bright blue (vs. upper lip white; lower lip pale violet); filament of stamens 4.5–5 mm long, purplish (vs. 1.3–1.4 mm long, light green).  

Etymology: The specific epithet is to honour the contributions of Sri. N.K. Janardhanan, Gardner, Herb Garden, Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, for his 45 years of dedicated service towards the conservation of threatened plants, especially medicinal plants. 

Chandrasseril Narayanan Sunil, Konickal Mambetta Prabhukumar, Deepu Sivadas, Malayil Gopalan Sanilkumar and Aloor Jose Robi. 2026. A New Species of Lobelia (Lobeliaceae) from the Western Ghats of India. Taiwania. 71(2); 243-246 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.243 [2026 March 21] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2165