[Botany • 2026] Melastoma calcicolum & M. souladethianum (Melastomataceae) • Two New Species from Limestone Karst, Khammouane Province, central Laos

ເອນອ້າຂຸນກອງແລງ |  Melastoma calcicolum Souvann. & Tagane sp. nov.
ເອນອ້າເພັດຊົມພູ |  M. souladethianum Souvann. & Nob.Tanaka, sp. nov.

in Souvannakhoummane, Tanaka, Souladeth, Tagane, Dang, Yamamoto, Yamazaki, Pham, Phonepaseuth, Vongthavone, Phengmala, Kongxaisavath et Sengthong, 2026.  

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1034.3141

Abstract

Two new species, Melastoma calcicolum Souvann. & Tagane sp. nov. and M. souladethianum Souvann. & Nob.Tanaka sp. nov. (Melastomataceae), are described from limestone karst habitats in Khammouane Province, central Laos. Descriptions, photographs, distribution, habitat, phenology, and initial conservation statuses of both newly described species are given. A key to the species of Melastoma in Laos including currently reported species is provided. These discoveries result from extensive fieldwork conducted between 2022 and 2025 in protected areas including Phou Hin Poun National protected area and Phou Pha Marn area. M. calcicolum sp. nov. is distinguished from M. saigonenese by its terete twigs, narrow lanceolate leaves, spaced penicillate emergences on the hypanthium, stalk of emergences on hypanthium shorter, glabrous sepals, and longer styles, while M. souladethianum sp. nov. differs from M. pellegrinianum by its terete branches, small inflorescences with 2–4 flowers, and sparsely bristled hypanthium with strigose hairs. Both species are currently known only from their type localities, occurring in exposed limestone areas, and are preliminarily assessed as Endangered and Critically Endangered based on IUCN criteria due to their restricted distributions and small population sizes. These findings highlight the high botanical diversity and endemism of Laos’s limestone ecosystems and underscore the importance of continued botanical exploration in the region.

Keywords: Limestone flora, Myrtales, new description, new taxa, Southeast Asia

 

Melastoma calcicolum Souvann. & Tagane sp. nov.
 A. Habit. B. Abaxial leaf surface. C. Close-up of flower bud showing the penicillate emergences. D. Horizontal cross-section of ovary. E. Lateral view of flower. F. Top view of flower. G. Vertical cross-section of flower bud. H. Flower bud. I. Vertical cross-section of the flower with petals removed. J. Petals. K. Long stamens. L. Short stamens. M. Pistil. N. Bottom view of hypanthium showing the 5 sepals.

Photos from holotype (Tagane et al. Z1704) 

A, C by S. Tagane; B, D, G–N by K. Souvannakhoummane and E–F by P. Phonepaseuth.

Melastoma calcicolum Souvann. & Tagane sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Similar to Melastoma saigonense (Kuntze) Merr., but differs in its terete young twigs  (vs.  (sub)quadrangular), narrower leaves (ovate-lanceolate to lanceolate, length/width ratio 2.8–4.1 vs. ovate to elliptic, length/width ratio 1.8–2), penicillate emergences spaced apart (vs. densely covered by penicillate emergences), stalk of emergences on hypanthium 1–1.5 mm long (vs. 3–5 mm long), glabrous sepals except for ciliate margins (vs. outer surface densely covered with bristles), and longer styles (20–25 mm long vs. 15–20 mm long).

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to the limestone habitat.

Vernacular name: ເອນອ້າຂຸນກອງແລງ En R Khoun Kongleng (meaning: ʻKhoun Kongleng's Melastomaʼ).

Melastoma souladethianum Souvann. & Nob.Tanaka, sp. nov.
A. Habit. B. Abaxial leaf surface. C–D. Flowers. E. Petals. F. Hypanthium & pistil. G. Vertical cross-section of hypanthium showing ovary. H. Flower bud. I. Lateral view of young fruits. J. Top view of young fruit. K. Short stamens. L.  Long stamens. M. Lateral view of mature dry fruit. N. Top view of mature dry fruit. O. Vertical cross section of mature dry fruit.

C–L from holotype (Tagane et al. Z1213) and A–B; M–O paratype (Tagane et al. Z1915)

Photos by K. Souvannakhoummane.

Melastoma souladethianum Souvann. & Nob.Tanaka sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Similar to Melastoma pellegrinianum (H.Boissieu) Karst.Mey., but it differs in having terete young branches (vs. quadrangular in M. pellegrinianum), inflorescences with 2–4 flowers (vs. more than 15), hypanthia sparsely covered in bristles with sparse strigose hairs (vs. bristles without strigose hairs).

Etymology: The specific epithet honors Dr. Phetlasy Souladeth, curator of the FOF herbarium of the National University of Laos, who led our field trips and is an excellent plant taxonomist. She has greatly contributed to elucidating the flora of Laos and has described more than 30 new species and recorded over 100 species to Laos’ flora.

Vernacular name: ເອນອ້າເພັດຊົມພູ En R Phetsomphou (meaning: purple diamond’s Melastomaʼ).

Keooudone SOUVANNAKHOUMMANE, Nobuyuki TANAKA, Phetlasy SOULADETH, Shuichiro TAGANE, Van-Son DANG, Takenori YAMAMOTO, Kaito YAMAZAKI, Quoc Trong PHAM, Phongphayboun PHONEPASEUTH, Thyraphon VONGTHAVONE, Kajonesuk PHENGMALA, Deuanta KONGXAISAVATH and Anousone SENGTHONG. 2026. Two New Species of Melastoma L. (Melastomataceae) from Limestone Karst, Khammouane Province, central Laos. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1034(1); 1-13. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1034.3141 [2026-01-08]

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[Crustacea • 2024] Alpheus cangiopalus • A New mud-dwelling Species of the Genus Alpheus Fabricius, 1798 (Decapoda: Alpheidae) from anoxic mangrove swamps of South Vietnam

Alpheus cangiopalus 

Marin & Thịnh, 2024

DOI: doi.org/10.15298/arthsel.33.4.09 

ABSTRACT

 The article describes a new species of the genus Alpheus Fabricius, 1798 (Decapoda: Caridea: Alpheidae), referring to the “Alpheus malabaricus” species complex, which is characterized by unusually long and thin fingers of minor cheliped (pereiopod I). Alpheus cangiopalus sp. n. was found to live exclusively in highly specific shallow water muddy lagoons located in deep anoxic mangrove swamps of the Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve in South Vietnam. Detailed morphological comparison with Alpheus malabaricus (Fabricius, 1775) and other taxa earlier synonymized with the former species are provided. The trophic position of the new species was evaluated based on analysis of δ15N/δ13C stable isotopes, and a discussion on other ecological features of the species is also represented in the article.

KEY WORDS: Crustacea, diversity, mangroves, communities, Asia, Indo-West Pacific.

Order Decapoda Latreille, 1802 

Infraorder Caridea Dana, 1852 

Family Alpheidae Rafinesque, 1815 

Genus Alpheus Fabricius, 1798

Alpheus cangiopalus sp. n., habitus, showing living coloration:
a — holotype ♂, ZMMU Ma-6233, lateral and dorsal views;
b — paratype ♂, ZMMU Ma-6235, lateral and dorsal views.

Alpheus cangiopalus sp. n. 

ETYMOLOGY. The species name, cangiopalus, was given after Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve; and the habitat of the new species, “palus” (Latin.) means “swamp”. The species epithet can be translated as “living in the swamps of Can Gio”.

Ivan N. Marin and Nguyễn Văn Thịnh. 2024. A New mud-dwelling Species of the Genus Alpheus Fabricius, 1798 (Decapoda: Alpheidae) from anoxic mangrove swamps of South Vietnam. Arthropoda Selecta. 33(4); 536–548. DOI: doi.org/10.15298/arthsel.33.4.09 

 Researchgate.net/publication/387383556_A_new_species_of_Alpheus_from_Vietnam

[Ichthyology • 2025] Acentrogobius nigromaculatus • A New Species of Acentrogobius (Perciformes: Gobiidae) from the Indo-West Pacific, with a revised diagnosis for Acentrogobius suluensis (Herre 1927)

Acentrogobius nigromaculatus

 Koreeda & Motomura, 2025

 

「イッテンホホグロスジハゼ」DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s10228-025-01044-9

facebook.com: Reo Koreeda

Abstract

The new gobiid species Acentrogobius nigromaculatus sp. nov., distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of the Indo-West Pacific region from Rodrigues Island (Mascarene Islands) to Japan, and previously misidentified as Acentrogobius suluensis (Herre 1927), is described, together with a revised diagnosis of A. suluensis. The new species is distinguished from all other congeners by the following combination of characteristics: dorsal-fin rays VI-I, 9 (rarely 10); anal-fin rays I, 9 (rarely 10); pectoral-fin rays 15–17; longitudinal scale series 26–32 (modally 29); transverse scales 9–12 (modally 10); pre-dorsal scales absent; first to fourth spines of first dorsal fin each with a filamentous tip (usually fourth spine longest; second and third spines of similar length; first spine shortest); head and nape naked; body mostly covered with ctenoid scales; cycloid or weakly ctenoid scales on thorax and just above pectoral-fin base; two brown stripes from just behind pectoral-fin base to caudal-fin base; five dark brown lateral blotches (rarely 6) on body, between lateral stripes; blue spots (sometimes indistinct) between and just above lateral stripes when fresh, but indistinct or absent on lateral blotches; black blotch on opercle; paired black spots on chin; single black spot on spine tip of second dorsal fin; longitudinal yellow (sometimes reddish-yellow) stripe on upper margin of caudal fin, just above longitudinal bluish stripe. The new species is similar to A. suluensis and Acentrogobius violarisi Allen 2015 in having a ladder-like lateral pattern on the body and a black blotch on the opercle but differs in having a naked pre-dorsal area, paired black blotches on the chin, a distinct black spot in the spine tip of the second dorsal fin, and yellow and blue stripes on the upper margin of the caudal fin, and lacking transverse red stripes and vertical black blotches laterally on the body.

Keywords: Taxonomy, Morphology, Yongeichthys, COI mt DNA

Acentrogobius nigromaculatus sp. nov. 

(New English name: Spotted Ladder Goby; 

new standard Japanese name: Itten-hohoguro-suji-haze)

Etymology. The specific name “nigromaculatus” and part of the Japanese name “Itten” refer to the single black spot on the spine tip of the second dorsal fin.

Reo Koreeda and Hiroyuki Motomura. 2025. A New Species of Acentrogobius (Perciformes: Gobiidae) from the Indo-West Pacific, with a revised diagnosis for Acentrogobius suluensis (Herre 1927).   Ichthyological Research. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s10228-025-01044-9 [21 November 2025]

 facebook.com/100008955613897/posts/3758840624424421

【博物館・連合農学研究科】点があります。イッテンホホグロスジハゼ

https://www.kagoshima-u.ac.jp/topics/2025/12/post-2391.html

[Herpetology • 2023] Urostrophus chungarae • Total Evidence Phylogenetic Analysis of Leiosauridae (Squamata) with Focus on the ‘para-anoles’ and Description of A New Urostrophus Species from the Bolivian Andes

Urostrophus chungarae

 Carvalho, Laspiur, Klaczko, Rivas, Rodrigues, Aurélio de Sena & Céspedes, 2023

 

    DOI: 10.1080/14772000.2023.2200306 

 Researchgate.net/publication/370346025 

facebook.com/LuisRolandoRivasTorrico 

 

Abstract

Only since the late 1980s have lizard specialists begun incorporating phylogenetic information to the classification of leiosaurids. These are among the most enigmatic South American lizards, with 35 currently recognised species arranged in six genera. To evaluate their relationships, we assembled a data set based on published and novel information containing 135 morphological characters and 11,235 DNA base pairs (14 loci) for up to 52 terminals, including outgroups. We performed 13 analyses based on different optimality criteria (parsimony, maximum likelihood, and coalescent approach) and indel coding strategies (gaps coded as missing data or as a fifth state). We also evaluated the impact of phenotypic evidence on the phylogeny of leiosaurids, and investigated the level of informativeness and potential sources of topological conflict using a Quartet Sampling analysis. Phylogenetic analyses supported the monophyly of major leiosaurid clades, including subfamilies Enyaliinae and Leiosaurinae, and the ‘para-anoles’ clade (Urostrophus + Anisolepis). However, Urostrophus was inferred as paraphyletic, with U. vautieri forming a clade with Anisolepis. These relationships motivate the synonymization of Anisolepis Boulenger, 1885 with Urostrophus Duméril & Bibron, 1837. The monophyly of Pristidactylus and, surprisingly, of Enyalius, were also challenged, underscoring the need for additional phylogenetic work. Finally, we described Urostrophus chungarae sp. nov. from the Torotoro National Park, Potosí, Bolivia. This apparently rare leiosaurid was inferred as sister to U. gallardoi, a Chacoan species distributed in northern Argentina and southeastern Bolivia. We conclude with a revised classification of Leiosauridae and by pointing out a number of unresolved issues that require further systematic investigation.

 

Key words: Bolivian Andes, leiosaurid phylogeny, lizard systematics, new classification, quartet sampling, sp. nov., synonymy, Urostrophus chungarae

 

André L. G. Carvalho, Alejandro Laspiur, Julia Klaczko, Luis Rolando Rivas, Miguel Trefaut Rodrigues, Marco Aurélio de Sena and Ricardo Céspedes. 2023. Total Evidence Phylogenetic Analysis of Leiosauridae (Squamata) with Focus on the ‘para-anoles’ and Description of A New Urostrophus Species from the Bolivian Andes.  Systematics and Biodiversity. 21(1); 2200306. DOI: 10.1080/14772000.2023.2200306    

Researchgate.net/publication/370346025_Total_evidence_phylogenetic_analysis_of_Leiosauridae_Squamata_with_focus_on_the_para-anoles

 facebook.com/LuisRolandoRivasTorrico/posts/10226025450237237

[Botany • 2025] Hoya thuhae (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from central Vietnam and H. lobbii, new record for Vietnam

Hoya thuhae Aver., Vuong & V.C.Nguyen⁣, 

in Tran, V. C. Nguyen, Averyanov, Wook, Truong, V. K. Nguyen, Maisak et Shvanova, 2025.  

turczaninowia.asu.ru/article/view/18531 

facebook.com: Nguyễn Văn Cảnh

Abstract

A new species, Hoya thuhae (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), from lowland areas of central Vietnam, is described. It resembles H. kerrii but may be distinguished by its finely pubescent petioles, puberulous leaf blade, longer peduncle, longer pilose to strigose pedicels, different shape of the calyx lobes, and elliptic corolla segments with apices raised above the central portion. Additionally, H. lobbii, known earlier in NE India, Thailand, and Cambodia, is recorded for Vietnam at first. Data on the ecology, phenology, distribution, and conservation status for both species are provided, together with plates compiled from original color analytical photos.

Keywords: flora of Vietnam, Hoya kerrii, plant diversity, plant taxonomy

Thi T. N. Tran, Van C. Nguyen, Leonid V. Averyanov, Um S. Wook, Ba V. Truong, Van K. Nguyen, Tatyana V. Maisak and Valeria V. Shvanova. 2025. Hoya thuhae (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), A New Species and H. lobbii, new record for Vietnam.  Turczaninowia. 28(4); 144–150. DOI: 10.14258/turczaninowia.28.4.17 [2025-12-25] 

turczaninowia.asu.ru/article/view/18531 

 facebook.com/canhorchid/posts/10229724189551490

 

[Crustacea • 2024] Caridina maeklongensis • A New landlocked freshwater Shrimp Species (Decapoda: Atyidae) from the Mae Klong Basin, Thailand

[A–D] Caridina maeklongensis  

   Macharoenboon, Manonai & Jeratthitikul. 2024

[E, F] C. sumatrensis  De Man, 1892

RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 72

Abstract. A newly discovered landlocked shrimp, Caridina maeklongensis, new species, is described from the Mae Klong Basin, western Thailand. The morphology of the new species resembles C. sumatrensis, from which it differs in possessing a shorter rostrum with fewer dorsal teeth, a small number of very large-sized eggs, and a greatly reduced posteromedian projection on the distal end of the telson. The molecular evidence of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene also supports the species status of the newly described species. This is the fifth endemic species of Caridina known from Thailand. 

Key words. crustacean, landlocked freshwater shrimp, molecular phylogeny, taxonomy, Southeast Asia

Living habitus specimens of Caridina species from the Mae Klong Basin.
A–D, Caridina maeklongensis, new species: A, paratype male, MUMNH-CAR064-4; B, paratype female, MUMNH-CAR064-1; C, paratype female, MUMNH-CAR064-15; and D, paratype female, MUMNH-CAR064-13.
 E, F, C. sumatrensis: E, male, MUMNH-CAR706-P2; and F, female, MUMNH-CAR706-P1.

Family Atyidae De Haan, 1849 

Genus Caridina H. Milne Edwards, 1837 

Caridina maeklongensis, new species

Etymology. The specific name is from its type locality, the Mae Klong Basin.

Kongkit Macharoenboon, Varitsara Manonai and Ekgachai Jeratthitikul. 2024. Caridina maeklongensis, A New landlocked freshwater Shrimp Species (Crustacea: Decapoda: Atyidae) from the Mae Klong Basin, Thailand. RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 72: 450–468.

[Botany • 2025] Boesenbergia burmanica (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Myanmar

 

  Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk:

 

in P. Saensouk, S. Saensouk, Boonma, Htway, Oo, Naing et Junsongduang, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5040070 

Abstract

Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk, a new species from Naypyidaw Union Territory, Myanmar, is described based on morphological examination of specimens collected during field surveys in 2024–2025. The genus Boesenbergia is taxonomically complex, and ongoing botanical exploration in Southeast Asia continues to reveal undescribed taxa. Comparative analyses of living plants, herbarium materials, and published descriptions were conducted to determine diagnostic features. Boesenbergia burmanica is closely related to B. meghalayensis Aishwarya & M.Sabu but differs in having ovoid, branched rhizomes, a pubescent lamina on both surfaces, and an oblanceolate labellum with bright red markings. It grows in shady, sandy-loam habitats at 140–145 m elevation and flowers from August to September, producing inflorescences with nine to ten flowers. Species of Boesenbergia are traditionally used in Myanmar and neighboring regions as medicinal and ornamental plants, and notes on local ethnobotanical knowledge are provided. The new species exhibits high ornamental potential due to its compact clumping habit and attractive floral coloration. Cultivation guidelines are provided to support ex situ conservation and horticultural development for sustainable use. This discovery increases the number of Boesenbergia species recorded in Myanmar to 14 and highlights the importance of continued field-based taxonomic and conservation research on regional Zingiberaceae diversity.

Keywords: Boesenbergia; conservation; ethnobotany; Myanmar flora; new species; plant diversity; taxonomy; Zingibereae 

  Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk:
(a) Top view of habits. (b) Front view of flower. (c) Abaxial of leaf. (d) Rhizome dissected to show the internal coloration. (g) Side view of pseudostems.
(e) Parts of flower of B. burmanica from left to right: side view of anther, epigynous glands with ovary, calyx, dorsal corolla lobe, lateral corolla lobes, staminodes and labellum.
(f) Parts of flower of B. meghalayensis from left to right: side view of anther, epigynous glands with ovary, calyx, dorsal corolla lobe, lateral corolla lobes, staminodes, and labellum. 

  Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk sp. nov.:
 (a) Front view of anther. (b) Back view of anther. (c) Side view of flower. (d) Side view of anther with floral tube, calyx, and ovary. (e) Bract. (f) Calyx. (g) Habit. (h) Dorsal corolla lobe. (i) Lateral corolla lobes. (j) Staminodes. (k) Epigynous glands and ovary. (l) Labellum.

Illustration drawn by Thawatphong Boonma.

Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Boesenbergia burmanica is similar to B. meghalayensis Aishwarya & M.Sabu, but differs in having ovoid, branched rhizomes (vs. running); ovoid tuberous roots (vs. cylindrical); ligule 3–5 mm long (vs. 1–2 mm); lamina narrowly elliptic, pubescent on both surfaces (vs. elliptic, glabrous); bracts pale green, puberulent (vs. white, glabrous); bracteole puberulent (vs. glabrous); rachis elongate with 9–10 flowers (vs. 4–5 flowers); labellum oblanceolate, not saccate, apex incised, white with bright red towards the apex and reddish spots on the mid-lobe (vs. ovate, saccate, apex acute, white with maroon towards the tip, maroon spots in the throat, and pale yellow along the mid-lobe); and larger anther (7.5–7.7 × 3.4–3.6 mm) with smaller crest not touching the anther backside (vs. 5–6 × 2 mm, crest 2.5 × 2 mm, tip touching backside) (Table 1, Figure 2 and Figure 3).

Etymology: The specific epithet “burmanica” refers to Myanmar (formerly Burma), the country where the species was discovered.

Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Thawatphong Boonma, Nyi Nyi Htway, Win Paing Oo, Min Khant Naing and Auemporn Junsongduang. 2025. A New Species of Boesenbergia Kuntze (Zingiberaceae) from Myanmar, with Notes on Diversity, Utilization, Conservation, and Horticultural Potential. Taxonomy. 5(4), 70; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5040070 [17 December 2025]

Researchgate.net/publication/398772402_A_New_Species_of_Boesenbergia_from_Myanmar

[Botany • 2025] Henckelia multiflora (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the eastern Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh, India

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, 

in Kishwan, Thackeray et Page, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2025.2095

Abstract

Henckelia multiflora, a robust, caulescent herb, is described from the Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India. The species is morphologically similar to Henckelia khasiana and H. oblongifolia but differs in having up to 30 (occasionally more) flowers per inflorescence, and a longer calyx with caudate-acuminate lobes. The species is presently known from only the Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Keywords: Caulescent, Endemic, Erect, Upper Siang District

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, sp. nov.
A, Terminal leaves; B, habit; C, abaxial side of leaf. Photographs: Navendu Page.

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, sp. nov.
A and B, Inflorescence; C, close-up of inflorescence, with white arrows indicating the position of bracts; D, corolla split between upper and lower lip. Photographs: Navendu Page.

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, sp. nov.

Henckelia multiflora is morphologically most similar to Henckelia khasiana Nampy & M.K.Akhil and Henckelia oblongifolia (Roxb.) D.J.Middleton & Mich.Möller in its caulescent habit and many-flowered cymose inflorescence. However, Henckelia multiflora differs from H. khasiana in having up to 30 (occasionally more) flowers per inflorescence (vs up to 12 in H. khasiana and up to 25 in H. oblongifolia), a longer calyx which is up to 4.2 cm long (vs 1.4–1.6 cm in H. khasiana and 0.6–2.2 cm in H. oblongifolia), caudate-acuminate calyx lobes (vs lanceolate in H. khasiana and triangular to triangular-acuminate in H. oblongifolia) and emarginate or shallowly bilobed stigma (vs chiritoid, distinctly forked in H. khasiana and truncate to obscurely emarginate in H. oblongifolia).

 Etymology. The specific epithet refers to its many-flowered inflorescence, which is one of the diagnostic features of this species.

S. Kishwan, T. U. Thackeray, N. V. Page. 2025. Henckelia multiflora (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from the eastern Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 82; 1-11. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2025.2095 [18 December 2025]

[Herpetology • 2025] Spinomantis lakolosy & S. lavabato • Two New Species of the Spinomantis bertini species complex (Anura: Mantellidae) from south-eastern Madagascar

 

Spinomantis lakolosy

Spinomantis lavabato

Hutter, Andriampenomanana, Lambert & Vences, 2025  

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/evolsyst.9.174833

Abstract

We scientifically name and describe two new species of spiny frog (Mantellidae: Spinomantis) from moderately high elevations in Ranomafana National Park, in south-east Madagascar. This region has been surveyed extensively and has a remarkably high anuran diversity with many undocumented species still being regularly discovered. We describe a previously identified candidate species, S. sp. Ca07, as Spinomantis lavabato sp. nov. and a previously undiscovered species from this region as Spinomantis lakolosy sp. nov.. The new species are morphologically cryptic within the S. bertini complex but can be recognized by a combination of subtle differences in coloration such as a lack or weak expression of sharp dorsolateral color border in both species. Bioacoustically, the new species are quite different from other species in the complex: Spinomantis lakolosy sp. nov. has the longest note duration with a powerful-sounding call that rings like a bell, which can be heard over the sound of rushing water in nearby streams; while S. lavabato sp. nov. differs by having the shortest note duration that is quiet and sounds like a trill. Furthermore, both species are substantially diverged in mitochondrial DNA, with pairwise distances in a fragment of the 16S rRNA marker of 7–9% to all other related species. Furthermore, we identify a lineage for future study in the complex from the nearby high-elevation site Andemaka within Ranomafana National Park that has an intermediate sounding advertisement call between the newly described species; although we cannot formally describe this lineage herein due to unavailability of voucher specimens, this lineage emphasizes the unexpectedly high diversity of sympatric species of the S. bertini complex in the Ranomafana area. Additionally, we identify another lineage from Ambahavala in the Anosy Chain with strong mitochondrial divergence for future study. Our findings also highlight the need for continued inventory work in high elevation rainforests of Madagascar, even in relatively well-studied regions such as Ranomafana National Park.

Key Words: Amphibia, Anura, new species, Ranomafana National Park, Spinomantis lakolosy, Spinomantis lavabato, taxonomy

Ex-situ dorsal-lateral, dorsal, and ventral photographs of (A) female Spinomantis lakolosy (paratype: KU340867, CRH 751; ventral side CRH 678) and (B) male specimen KU340884 (CRH 781) from the divergent population here provisionally assigned to S. lakolosy.

In-situ photographs of the habitat and microhabitat of Spinomantis lakolosy.
 The panels show: (A) the outskirts of the village of Miranony (blue circle) that leads to the primary forest habitat in the top right of the photograph (purple arrow); (B) within the primary forest habitat, the fast-flowing stream where S. lakolosy calls at night; (C) male paratype KU340868 (CRH 752) perched on a rock ledge alongside the stream; and (D) female paratype KU340867 (CRH 751) perched on a small branch alongside a rock ledge.

Spinomantis lakolosy sp. nov.

Spinomantis lavabato
Ex-situ dorsal-lateral, dorsal, and ventral photographs of (A) male (holotype: KU336975, JJW 2336) and (B) female (paratype: KU336978, CRH 118) in life.

Spinomantis lavabato sp. nov.  

 

 Carl R. Hutter, Zo F. Andriampenomanana, Shea M. Lambert and Miguel Vences. 2025. Two New Species of the Spinomantis bertini species complex (Mantellidae) from south-eastern Madagascar. Evolutionary Systematics. 9(2): 285-299. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/evolsyst.9.174833 [29 Dec 2025]

[Botany • 2024] Novelties in Aspidistra (Asparagaceae: Convallarioideae) with erect stems in the Flora of Vietnam: Aspidistra quanii, A New Species, and A. erecta, a new national record

  

 Aspidistra quanii Aver. & V.C. Nguyen, 

in Averyanov, V. C. Nguyen, Bui, Voung, Wynn-Jones, Nuraliev, Maisak, Krupkina, Luu, K. S. Nguyen et V. K. Nguyen, 2024.  

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.640.1.4 [2024-03-07] 

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Abstract

The paper reports two species of Aspidistra newly discovered in the flora of Vietnam. It includes a description of A. quanii, a species new to science found in the central part of the country and information on four locations of A. erecta in northern Vietnam, a species known earlier only in southern China. The studied species are remarkable for having elongate, more or less erect stems. For both species, detailed analytical colour illustrations, data on morphology, ecology, phenology, tentative relationships, distribution, and provisional conservation status are provided. Additionally, we provide new data on shoot system of A. globosa, a species morphologically close to A. quanii.

Aspidistra globosa, Eastern Indochina, flora, new taxa, plant diversity, plant taxonomy, Ruscaceae, Monocots

 Aspidistra quanii Aver. & V.C. Nguyen

LEONID V. AVERYANOV, VAN CANH NGUYEN, VAN HUONG BUI, TRUONG BA VUONG, BLEDDYN WYNN-JONES, MAXIM S. NURALIEV, TATIANA V. MAISAK, LUDMILA I. KRUPKINA, HONG TRUONG LUU, KHANG SINH NGUYEN and VAN KHUONG NGUYEN. 2024. Novelties in Aspidistra (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae) with erect stems in the Flora of Vietnam: A. quanii, A New Species, and A. erecta, a new national record.  Phytotaxa. 640(1); 39-49. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.640.1.4 [2024-03-07] 

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https://vnmn.ac.vn/novelties-in-aspidistra-asparagaceae-convallarioideae-with-erect-stems-in-the-flora-of-vietnam-a-quanii-a-new-species-and-a-erecta-a-new-national-record-1753847669

 

[Arachnida • 2025] Spinepeira erwini & Scoloderus neilli • New astonishing Species of Orb-weaving Spiders (Araneae: Araneidae) from Ecuador [A Web of Canopy Discoveries Part I]

Spinepeira erwini

Díaz-Guevara & Dupérré, 2025.  

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5660.4.9

 

Abstract 

Two new species from the family Araneidae are described: a new species from the monotypic orb-weaving genus Spinepeira Levi, 1995, Spinepeira erwini sp. nov. (♀), and a new species of Scoloderus Simon, 1887, Scoloderus neilli sp. nov. (♀), are described from the Ecuadorian Amazon. Both species were collected with insecticidal canopy knockdown. Furthermore, herein, we present the first images of Spinepeira’s internal genitalia, and the first country record of Pozonia Schenkel, 1953 is reported with Pozonia bacillifera (Simon, 1897) collected in the canopy of Tiputini in Ecuador.

Araneae, Fogging, canopy knockdown, orb-weaver

\

Spinepeira erwini sp. nov. 

David R. DÍAZ-GUEVARA and Nadine DUPÉRRÉ. 2025. A Web of Canopy Discoveries Part I (Araneae: Araneidae). New astonishing Species of Orb-weaving Spiders from Ecuador and the first country record of Pozonia Schenkel, 1953.  Zootaxa. 5660(4); 587-595. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5660.4.9 [2025-07-11]

[Botany • 2025] Bulbophyllum minhquanii (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae) • Bulbophyllum sect. Racemosae in Vietnam with the Description of the New Species and the new national record, B. albidostylidium

Bulbophyllum minhquanii  Vuong, Q.T.Truong & Aver.⁣, 

in Huynh, Averyanov, Maisak, Q. B. Nguyen, V. C. Nguyen, Dang, T. G. Nguyen, Q. T. Truong et B. V. Truong, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.736.1.2 

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Abstract

The paper provides a taxonomic assessment of Bulbophyllum section Racemosae in Vietnam, accompanied by an identification key for all species currently recognized in the country. Information on type specimens, distribution, habitat and phenology (when available), as well as relevant taxonomic notes are presented for each accepted species, accompanied by plates with analytical photos. Bulbophyllum minhquanii is described as new to science, and B. albidostylidium (identified earlier as B. putii) is reported as a new national record. In total, 14 species of B. sect. Racemosae, of which five are endemic, are documented for Vietnam based on previous and current studies. The occurrences of B. macrocoleum and B. morphologorum in Vietnam remain uncertain and require verification by additional collections.

Flora of Vietnam, Orchids, plant diversity, plant endemism, plant taxonomy, plant conservation, Monocots

Bulbophyllum minhquanii

HUU DUC HUYNH, LEONID V. AVERYANOV, TATIANA V. MAISAK, QUOC BAO NGUYEN, VAN CANH NGUYEN, VAN SON DANG, TRUONG GIANG NGUYEN, QUANG TAM TRUONG, BA VUONG TRUONG. 2025. Bulbophyllum sect. Racemosae (Orchidaceae) in Vietnam with the Description of the New Species, B. minhquanii and the new national record, B. albidostylidium.  Phytotaxa. 736(1); 12-32. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.736.1.2 [2025-12-24] 

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[Botany • 2025] Primula lepcha (Primulaceae) • A New Species from Sikkim Himalaya, India

Primula lepcha  

in Lepcha, Chettri et Singh, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.732.1.8

 

Abstract

Primula lepcha, a new species from Naga valley, North-Sikkim is described and illustrated. The new species closely resembles with P. bhutanica, P. whitei, and P. bracteosa, but it differs markedly in several floral and vegetative characters, including its efarinose nature of plant, the presence of both homostylous and heterostylous floral conditions, shorter scape, distinct bract shape and length, irregular calyx margins, ex-annulate corolla, and smaller stamens in both pin and thrum flowers. A detailed description, information on distribution and phenology, a comparative table, and colour photographs of its natural habitat are also provided.

Eastern Himalaya, sect. Petiolaris, North Sikkim, taxonomy, Eudicots

Primula lepcha sp. nov.

DHARMIT LEPCHA, ARUN CHETTRI and HARSH SINGH. 2025. A New Species of Primula (Primulaceae) from Sikkim Himalaya, India. Phytotaxa. 732(1); 83-90. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.732.1.8 [2025-12-03]