[Entomology • 2022] Scarlata namsanam • A New Species of the Genus Scarlata (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) from Laos

Scarlata namsanam 

 Gorbunov, 2022

DOI: doi.org/10.31610/zsr/2022.31.2.204

Abstract 

Scarlata namsanam sp. nov. from Laos is described and illustrated. The type series was collected on wet soil near the drying stream within a primary monsoon lowland tropical forest. This new species is most similar to S. guichardii Skowron Volponi, 2022, from which it differs in the coloration of the hind tibia, forewing and abdomen and in noticeably wider discal spot of the hindwing.

Key words: clearwing moths, taxomony, Laos, Oriental Region, Sesiidae, Sesiinae, Osminiini, new species 

Variability of males of Scarlata namsanam sp. nov.
1–2, holotype, wing expanse 14.0 mm, Sesiidae picture №№ 0021-0022–2022;
 3–4, paratype, wing expanse 13.1 mm, Sesiidae picture № 0023-0024–2022;
5–6, paratype, wing expanse 15.5 mm, Sesiidae picture № 0149-0150–2021.
Dorsal (1, 3, 5) and ventral (2, 4, 6) view.

Variability of males of Scarlata namsanam sp. nov.
7–8, paratype, wing expanse 15.5 mm, Sesiidae picture №№ 0025-0026–2022;
9–10, paratype, wing expanse 15.3 mm, Sesiidae picture № 0027-0028–2022;
11–12, paratype, wing expanse 15.5 mm, Sesiidae picture № 0147-0148–2021.
Dorsal (7, 9, 11) and ventral (8, 10, 12) view.

O.G. Gorbunov. 2022. A New Species of the Genus Scarlata (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) from Laos. Zoosystematica Rossica. 31(2): 204–211. DOI: doi.org/10.31610/zsr/2022.31.2.204 

 

[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]

facebook.com/PhetlasySouladeth/posts/25405484335746080

[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

[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

[Ichthyology • 2025] Niwaella tigrina • A New Species of Spined Loach (Cobitidae) from the Poyang Lake System of Jiangxi Province, East China

 

Niwaella tigrina

H.-X. Zhang, Y.-P. Zhang, W.-J. Chen & E. Zhang, 2025

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5583.1.5

 

Abstract

A new species of the spiny loach genus Niwaella is described herein from the Xiu-Shui river, an affluent of Lake Poyang in Jiangxi Province, China. This species is distinguished from all other congeneric species in China due to having a unique body coloration, comprising 20-25 transverse black bars on the dorsum and upper part of the flank. Other characteristics, though not exclusive to this species, include an indistinct blackish mid-dorsal stripe from the nape to the caudal-fin base, a lower jaw fully covered by the lower lip; 17-20 black vertical bars on the lower part of flank, a short suborbital spine with a shorter processus latero-caudalis that is less than one-fifth the length of the processus medio-caudalis, and seven branched dorsal-fin rays. The validity of the new species is corroborated by its monophyly, as evidenced by phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene.

Pisces, Taxonomy, Cobitidae, new taxon, middle Chang-Jiang basin

HAI-XIN ZHANG, YAN-PING ZHANG, WEN-JING CHEN and E. ZHANG. 2025. Niwaella tigrina, A New Species of Spined Loach from the Poyang Lake System of Jiangxi Province, East China.  Zootaxa. 5583(1); 101-112. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5583.1.5 [2025-01-31]

[Botany • 2026] Rhododendron mulunense (Ericaceae) • A New Species from the Karst Mountains of Guangxi and Guizhou Provinces, China

  

Rhododendron mulunense  Y.S.Huang & X.X.Mao,

in Hou, Huang, Luo, Chen et Mao, 2026.

木论杜鹃  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.269.175011  

 

Abstract

Rhododendron mulunense, a new species of Rhododendron (Ericaceae) within subsect. Maddenia in sect. Rhododendron and endemic to karst areas of Guangxi and Guizhou Province, SW China, is described and illustrated. The new species most closely resembles R. wumingense, particularly in scale density on the abaxial leaf surface and in flower color and shape, but can be readily distinguished by its hairless shoots and leaves, larger tubular-funneled corolla, and longer and thinner white tube flushed with pink. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the threatened status of the new species is assessed as “Endangered, EN C2a(i), D.” We provide detailed documentation of its morphological characteristics, geographical distribution, digitized holotype voucher, and comparative photographs, along with a diagnostic table. An identification key is provided as a primary tool to enable taxonomic discrimination of this species from its congeners.

Key words: Conservation, morphology, Rhododendron mulunense, Rhododendron wumingense, taxonomy

Rhododendron mulunense.
 A. The habitat of this new species in type localities; B. Flowering plants; C. Leaves; D–F. Flowering branchlets, inflorescences, and flowers; G, H. Dissection of corolla; I. Flower buds; J. Stamens and style; K. Styles and ovaries; L. Dissection of ovary; M. Stigmas; N. Poorly developed stamens; O. Normal stamens; P, Q. Anther abaxial and adaxial surface; R. Tube base; S. Flower bud scales; T. Dehiscent capsule.

Photographs by Yu-Song Huang.

 Rhododendron mulunense Y.S.Huang & X.X.Mao, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Resembles Rhododendron wumingense Fang but distinguishable by the absence of indumentum on young shoots, leaf margins, and petioles (vs. sparsely setose), longer and larger leaves (4.2–7.4 × 2.3–3.8 vs. 3.5–4.5 × 1.8–2.4 cm), relatively sparser scales on abaxial leaf surfaces (1–4 vs. 1–3 × their own diameter apart), corollas that are tubular funneled (vs. broadly funneled), longer and wider (5.9–7.5 × 4.7–7 vs. 3.1–4.5 × 3.3–4.9 cm) with slender tubes (2.9–3.9 × 0.5–1.2 vs. 1.9–2.5 × 1.7–2.4 cm), outer surface of corolla tubes white flushed with pink (vs. yellowish green) and pubescent but not scaly (vs. sparsely scaly and hairless) (Figs 1, 2, 4; Table 1).

Etymology. The specific epithet of this newly described species refers to its type localities at Guangxi Mulun National Nature Reserve, part of the South China Karst landscape registered in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Vernacular name. Simplified Chinese: 木论杜鹃; 

Chinese pinyin: mù lùn dù juān.

Ying Hou, Yu-Song Huang, Liu-Juan Luo, Zheng-Ren Chen, Xing-Xing Mao. 2026. Rhododendron mulunense (Ericaceae), A New Species from the Karst Mountains of Guangxi and Guizhou Provinces, China. PhytoKeys. 269: 99-112. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.269.175011  [08-01-2026]

[Arachnida • 2026] Coelotes fani • A New Species of Coelotes Blackwall, 1841 (Araneae: Agelenidae: Coelotinae) from Huaping National Nature Reserve, northeast Guangxi, southern China

Coelotes fani Zhou, 

in Wang, Jiang et Zhou, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e178386

Abstract

Background: The genus Coelotes Blackwall, 1841, comprises 156 species, primarily distributed in East Asia, including Japan (64 species), China (56 species) and Korea (1 species). Currently, only two species of this genus have been recorded in Guangxi, China.

New information: A new coelotine species, Coelotes fani Zhou, sp. nov. (♂♀), is described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. This includes a detailed description, diagnosis, illustrations and a distribution map of this species.

Keywords: Asia, coelotine spiders, distribution, morphology, taxonomy

Coelotes fani Zhou, sp. nov.

 Hegui Wang, Runze Jiang, Guchun Zhou. 2026. A New Species of Coelotes Blackwall, 1841 (Araneae, Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from Huaping National Nature Reserve, northeast Guangxi, southern China. Biodiversity Data Journal. 14: e178386.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e178386 [09 Jan 2026]

[Mammalogy • 2026] Oreoryzomys jumandi, O. balneator, O. hesperus, ... • Mountains of Diversity: A Systematic Revision of the Andean Rodent Genus Oreoryzomys (Rodentia: Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae)

 

(A-E) Oreoryzomys balneator (Thomas, 1900);
(F-J) O. hesperus (Anthony, 1924);
 (K-O) Oreoryzomys jumandi Brito, Vargas, García, Tinoco & Pardiñas, 

in Brito​, Vargas, Tinoco, García, Carrión-Olmedo, Koch, Wistuba, Nivelo-Villavicencio et Pardiñas. 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20515

Abstract

The until recently monotypic cricetid genus Oreoryzomys inhabits piedmont and cloud forests, primarily in eastern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Erected following the taxonomic revision of a polytypic Oryzomys complex two decades ago, Oreoryzomys has remained poorly understood, with most references limited to the original descriptions of its type species (O. balneator) and a subspecies (O. b. hesperus). Here, we present an integrative taxonomic revision of the genus, based on new field collections and comprehensive museum-based analyses. Phylogenetic reconstructions from mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences, combined with morphometric and qualitative morphological data, support the recognition of three species: (1) a redescribed O. balneator from central-eastern Ecuador; (2) O. hesperus, elevated to full species rank based on topotypic material; and (3) a new species from populations of the Quijos River Valley, northeastern Ecuador. This revision triples the known species diversity of Oreoryzomys and highlights the genus as a notable radiation of small-bodied oryzomyines adapted to Andean environments. Our findings emphasize the need for systematic revisions of other poorly known Andean rodents to better reveal the hidden diversity of cricetids and the role of the Andes in shaping Neotropical biodiversity.

Keywords: Andes, Ecuador, New species, Oreoryzomys balneator, Oreoryzomys hesperus, Oryzomyini, Peru

 

External appearance of the three Oreoryzomys species (left panels) and details of their feet and hands (right panels).
Top row: (A) live lateral view (O. balneator, MECN 5815); (B–C) plantar and dorsal views of foot; (D–E) palmar and dorsal views of hand (MECN 6140).
Middle row: (F) live lateral view (O. a. hesperus, MECN 4789); (G–H) plantar and dorsal views of foot; (I–J) palmar and dorsal views of hand.
Bottom row: (K) live lateral view (Oreoryzomys jumandi sp. nov., MECN 8278, holotype); (L–M) plantar and dorsal views of foot; (N–O) palmar and dorsal views of hand.

Scale = 10 mm. Photographs (A–J, L–O) by J Brito; (K) by R Wistuba.

Oreoryzomys jumandi new species. Brito, Vargas, García, Tinoco & Pardiñas

 

Jumandi Mountain Mouse, 

Ratón montano de Jumandi (in Spanish)

 

Diagnosis: A species of Oreoryzomys distinguished by the following combination of characters: incisive foramina short, not reaching the anterior margin of M1 (Fig. 6F); frontoparietal (coronal) suture distinctly V-shaped (Fig. 6E); stapedial process of the auditory bulla elongate and pointed, projecting beyond the posterior margin of the alisphenoid (Fig. 9F); median lacerate foramen broad and positioned at a distance from the bulla; M3 with the hypoflexus shallow, forming a lake-like structure; and m2 with a long mesolophid fused to the mesostyle (Fig. 11C).

 

Etymology: Named in honor of Jumandi, a Quijo warrior who led the first indigenous uprising against Spanish conquistadors in the Americas on 29 November 1578 (Santos-Granero, 1992). In recognition of his historical significance, Jumandi was officially declared a National Hero by the Asamblea Nacional del Ecuador in November 2011.

Jorge Brito​, Rocío Vargas, Nicolás Tinoco, Rubí García, Julio C. Carrión-Olmedo, Claudia Koch, Ricarda Wistuba, Carlos Nivelo-Villavicencio and Ulyses F.J. Pardiñas. 2026. Mountains of Diversity: A Systematic Revision of the Andean Rodent Genus Oreoryzomys (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae). PeerJ. 14:e20515. DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20515 [January 9, 2026]

 

[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 

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[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] Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen, 

in Ma, Yin, Xi et Shen, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152 

 XTBG.cas.cn

 

Abstract

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen (Apocynaceae) is described as a new species from Luquan, Yunnan, China. It morphologically resembles V. yunnanense, V. secamonoides and V. rotundifolium, but differs from them in many features of the leaves and flowers. Based on the IUCN categories and criteria, and considering imminent threats to the species, it is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen sp. nov. 

Xing-Da Ma, Yi-Qiang Yin, Hou-Cheng Xi and Jian-Yong Shen. 2025. Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae), a New Species from Yunnan, China. Annales Botanici Fennici. 62(1):327-331. DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152  [18 November 2025]

 XTBG.cas.cn/2022/wzbc/xmcg/khbma

[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 

facebook.com: Nguyễn Văn Cảnh

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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[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

[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

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[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.