[Herpetology • 2026] Calotes thailandensis & C. maehongsonensis • Systematics of the Calotes irawadi complex (Squamata: Agamidae) with Two newly described Species from Thailand

Calotes thailandensis 

Prakobkarn, Zug, Tandavanitj & Ngamprasertwong, 2026

 

กิ้งก่ารั้ว, กิ้งก่าหัวแดง  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1281.175455 

Abstract

Two new species of Calotes lizards, Calotes thailandensis sp. nov. and C. maehongsonensis sp. nov., are diagnosed and described from Thailand. These new species are most closely related to C. irawadi and C. wangi, which are members of the C. irawadi complex, supported by phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA data (ND2 and COI genes) coupled with morphometric and osteological data. Calotes thailandensis sp. nov. and C. maehongsonensis sp. nov. are distinguished from true C. irawadi by having a wider PelvW, but a smaller head size in adult males. In particular, adult males of C. thailandensis sp. nov. obviously differ from both C. irawadi and C. wangi by having a longer supratympanic spine, whereas C. maehongsonensis sp. nov. has a distinctly longer hindlimb than that of C. irawadi and C. wangi. As a result, two new species increase the list of known Calotes species in Thailand to four species; C. thailandensis sp. nov., C. maehongsonensis sp. nov., C. emma and C. goetzi.

Key words: Morphometric analysis, osteology, phylogenetic analysis, Southeast Asia, taxonomy

An uncollected male (A, B) on breeding season (March, 2025) and female (D) (CUMZ-R-2767) of Calotes thailandensis sp. nov. in rubber plantation (C) at Khlong Hoi Kong District, Songkhla Province, Thailand.

 Calotes thailandensis sp. nov. 

C. maehongsonensis sp. nov.

 Arpapan Prakobkarn, George R. Zug, Nontivich Tandavanitj and Thongchai Ngamprasertwong. 2026. Systematics of the Calotes irawadi complex (Squamata, Agamidae) with Two newly described Species from Thailand. ZooKeys. 1281: 69-104. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1281.175455 [03-06-2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Kongobatha spinosistyla, K. serpens & K. rufilinea • Striking, Slender, and Secretly Spinose: A Revision of the Snake Mantises of the Genus Kongobatha (Mantodea: Nanomantidae: Fulciniinae: Neomantini)

Kongobatha spinosistyla Connors, 

in Connors, Yeeles, Lach et  Rentz, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5807.1.2

 

Abstract

Kongobatha is one of the most commonly encountered of all Australian mantis genera, and yet despite this, very little is known about the taxonomy or biology of the genus. Described to include a single Australian species, K. diademata, the only subsequent work on the genus has been the description of a second species from New Guinea, K. papua. We here describe three additional species, K. spinosistyla Connors sp. nov., K. serpens Connors sp. nov., and K. rufilinea Connors sp. nov., and redescribe K. diademata and K. papua in detail, the latter of which is recorded from Australia for the first time. We also describe for the first time the unusual, heavily spinose styli of male Kongobatha. These are apparently unique among Mantodea as a whole, but their function remains unknown. 

Mantodea, mantis, snake mantis, Australia, New Guinea, taxonomy, styli, citizen science

Male and female Kongobatha spinosistyla (Rainforest Snake Mantis), Kuranda, North Queensland.

photo: Maurice Allan

MATTHEW G. CONNORS, PETER YEELES, LORI LACH and DAVID C.F. RENTZ. 2026. Striking, Slender, and Secretly Spinose: A Revision of the Snake Mantises of the Genus Kongobatha (Mantodea: Nanomantidae: Fulciniinae: Neomantini).  Zootaxa. 5807(1); 45-84. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5807.1.2 [2026-05-08]

[Entomology • 2026] Stygioides hecate • A Golden Shadow in the Mountains: A New Stygioides Bruand, 1853 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) from Turkey

 Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen, 

in Japaridze, Junnilainen et Sihvonen, 2026.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.2.8

 

Abstract

A new species of the genus Stygioides Bruand, 1853 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) is described from central Turkey. Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. is based on material collected in the Sultan Daðlarý Mountains (Konya Province). The new species is characterised by its distinct wing coloration in females. Adults are diurnal, as in other members of the genus, and were collected by daytime netting. DNA barcode data (COI) are provided and compared with available sequences in the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD Systems), supporting the distinctiveness of the new taxon. The discovery of this species increases the number of Stygioides species to 10 and those from Turkey to three, thus contributing to a better understanding of the diversity and distribution of the genus in the Palaearctic realm.

Lepidoptera, carpenter moths, DNA barcoding, Heteroneura, Middle East

Adults of Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov.
 A–B. Paratype male, dorsal and ventral view and associated labels.
C–D. Holotype female, dorsal and ventral view and associated labels.

Scale bar: 10 mm

Stygioides hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Males of S. hecate Japaridze & Junnilainen sp. nov. differ from S. nupponenorum by the presence of a distinct white tip of the male abdomen and white scales on the antennae, the absence of brown piliform scales on the abdomen, a narrower apex of the valvae, and a shorter saccus (Figs 1A–1B, 2 C; cf. Lingenhöle et al. 2016: fig. 6; Yakovlev 2011: fig. 35). Females are readily distinguished from all congeners by the presence of golden-yellow scales on the antennae, head, thorax and wings (Figs 1C–1D; cf. Lingenhöle et al. 2017: figs 1–3, 9; Japaridze et al. 2025b: fig. 22).

Etymology: The species name is derived from Hecate, the ancient Greek goddess associated with the night and commonly depicted carrying yellow or golden torches. This name alludes to the coloration of the holotype female, which is predominantly black with yellow-golden scales on the wings, thorax, head, and antennae.

LASHA-GIORGI JAPARIDZE, JARI JUNNILAINEN and PASI SIHVONEN. 2026. A Golden Shadow in the Mountains: A New Stygioides Bruand, 1853 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) from Turkey.  Zootaxa. 5821(2); 274-280. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.2.8 [2026-05-29]

[Botany • 2026] Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species endemic to Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing, China

 

Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis Sheng H.Tang, Jia W.Yang & X.Z.He,   

in He, Dai, Xu, Yang et Tang, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.189435 

Abstract

A new species in Rubiaceae, Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis, is described from China. The new species is endemic to the Danxia landform at the juncture of Guizhou Province, Sichuan Province, and Chongqing City. It is a herb with a 1–7 cm long rooting stem, 3–11 nodes, and most leaves arranged in markedly unequal pairs. It has a somewhat inequilateral leaf blade base, a congested-cymose inflorescence, and well-developed bracteoles. We investigated two populations in Guizhou, China. The new taxon has been collected or photographed by others in Sichuan and Chongqing, China, and misidentified as O. japonica, O. umbricola, O. cantonensis, or O. chinensis. An identification key to O. xishuiensis and morphologically similar species is provided.

Key words: Danxia landform, flora of China, new taxon, Ophiorrhiza

Habitat of Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis sp. nov.
A, B. Population of Sanchahe Town, Xishui County, China; C, D. Population of Baoyuan Town, Chishui City, China

 (Photographed by Sheng-Hu Tang and Xuan-Ze He).

Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis Sheng H.Tang, Jia W.Yang & X.Z.He, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. The new species is most similar to O. japonica, O. guizhouensis, and O. chinensis by the length of the stipules, calyx lobes and corolla tube, the shape of the corolla, and the distribution areas and altitudes. It differs from O. japonica and O. guizhouensis by the 1–7 cm long rooting stems (vs. 10–30 cm, or longer), the fact that most leaves are arranged in markedly unequal (vs. subequal) pairs, the style reaching above (vs. below) the middle of the tube in the short-styled flowers, and the glabrous (vs. pubescent) style in the long-styled flowers. It is distinct from O. chinensis by the congested-cymose (vs. paniculiform to cymose) inflorescences, the well-developed and persistent (vs. absent or reduced and caducous) bracteoles, and the glabrous (vs. pubescent) style in the long-styled flowers.

 Xuan-Ze He, Zheng-Xian Dai, Jian Xu, Jia-Wen Yang and Sheng-Hu Tang. 2026. Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis (Rubiaceae), A New Species endemic to Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing, China. PhytoKeys. 275: 163-176. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.189435 [29 May 2026]

[PaleoMammalogy • 2026] Archaeomeles neglecta • A New Genus of Badger from Pikermi (Greece) and A Review of the Systematics and Evolution of Miocene Melinae (Carnivora: Mustelidae)

Archaeomeles neglecta 

Kargopoulos, Valenciano, Jiangzuo, Liakopoulou, Gerakakis, Kampouridis, Paparizos, Svorligkou, Filis, Sklavounou & Roussiakis, 2026

  DOI: doi.org/10.1080/14772019.2026.2647483  

 x.com/paleo_alberto

 

Abstract

The evolution of Mustelidae has been a topic of debate, obscured by a complex system of convergences between phylogenetically distant groups. In this work, we present a new genus and species of mustelid, Archaeomeles neglecta gen. et sp. nov., from the classical Turolian locality of Pikermi (Greece, Late Miocene, MN12). The material consists of a skull with the associated mandible and shows distinct features that clearly differentiate it from all other known mustelid genera. These characteristics include a long and narrow rostrum, the absence of developed sagittal and supraorbital crest, relatively slender mandibular corpus, enamel folds on the lower canines, the wide P3 and p4, and the moderately enlarged M1 talon and m1 talonid. Morphometrical comparisons and phylogenetic analysis suggest that Archaeomeles is a stem member of the Melinae along with the other Turolian mustelids Promeles, Polgardia and Melodon from Eurasia. Ecomorphological comparisons indicate intermediate dietary habits between the plesiomorphic gulonines and the derived extant badgers, suggesting a diet that is based on small vertebrates and invertebrates as well as plant material. 

Keywords: Carnivora, Ecomorphology, Mustelidae, Phylogeny, Turolian

Systematic palaeontology

Order Carnivora Bowdich, 1821

Suborder Caniformia Kretzoi, 1943

Family Mustelidae Batsch, 1788

Subfamily Melinae Bonaparte, 1838

Genus Archaeomeles gen. nov.

Type and only species. Archaeomeles neglecta sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Mustelid of the size of the extant European otter (Lutra lutra); rostrum long and slender; P1/p1 present; P2/p2 two-rooted; P3 significantly wide; P4 moderately shortened; P4 with hypocone region moderately developed; M1 moderately expanded distolingually, with metaconule and a high protocone; mandibular corpus slender; lower canine with enamel folds; p4 slender without marked accessory cuspids, m1 with low trigonid cuspids, talonid moderately enlarged and basin-like, without entoconid and entoconulid, but with distinct hypoconid and a minute, buccally situated hypoconulid.

Derivation of name: Archaeo-, from the Greek word Ἀρχαῖος meaning ancient, and -meles meaning badger. The name Archaeomeles, ‘ancient badger’, is chosen to highlight its key position in the radiation of the Melinae in the Turolian.

Archaeomeles neglecta sp. nov.

Holotype. AMPG-P.A. 4879/91 – skull with an associated mandible.

 

Derivation of name. The specific name neglecta comes from the feminine of the Latin word neglectus meaning neglected. It refers to the holotype being overlooked in the collections of AMPG for over a century.

Type Locality. Pikermi (classical layers), Attica, Greece.

Age. 7.33–7.29Ma, Turolian, Late Miocene (MN 12).

 

Nikolaos Kargopoulos, Alberto Valenciano, Qigao Jiangzuo, Dionysia Liakopoulou, Nikolaos Gerakakis, Panagiotis Kampouridis, Nikolaos Paparizos, Georgia Svorligkou, Panagiotis Filis, Stamatina Sklavounou and Socrates Roussiakis. 2026. A New Genus of Badger from Pikermi (Greece) and A Review of the Systematics and Evolution of Miocene Melinae (Mammalia, Carnivora, Mustelidae). Journal of Systematic Palaeontology. 24(1); 2647483.  DOI: doi.org/10.1080/14772019.2026.2647483 [24 Apr 2026]

  x.com/paleo_alberto/status/2047713035066736997

[Crustacea • 2026] Geosesarma penrissen • A New Species of Vampire Crab of the Genus Geosesarma De Man, 1892 (Brachyura: Sesarmidae) from A montane forest in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

 

Geosesarma penrissen

Grinang, P. Y. C. Ng & P. K. L. Ng, 2026 

 

The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology. 74; 

Abstract 

 A new species of semiterrestrial crab, Geosesarma penrissen, new species, is described herein from Mount Penrissen in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysia. It represents the third species of Geosesarma known from the montane forests of Borneo, the other two being G. larsi Ng & Grinang, 2018 from Mount Ampungan in Serian, Sarawak, and G. aurantium Ng, 1995 from Mount Silam in Sabah. Diagnostic characters distinguishing G. penrissen, new species, from its congeners are provided, together with ecological notes on its highland habitat. 

Key words. freshwater crab, semiterrestrial, taxonomy, lowland forest, comparative morphology

Geosesarma penrissen, new species, live colouration.
A–C, holotype male (10.6 × 10.2 mm) (ZRC 2024.0567); D, paratype male (10.7 × 10.5 mm) (ZRC 2024.0171); E, adult male, on shrub, Batu Panggah trail, photographed 2311 hrs; 6 July 2023 (not collected); F, subadult, on shrub, Batu Panggah trail, photographed 2118 hrs, 6 July 2023 (not collected).

All specimens from Sarawak. E, F, photographed by Chien Lee.

 Geosesarma penrissen, new species

Diagnosis. Carapace almost square, width-to-length ratio 1.01–1.07, lateral margins gently sinuous, subparallel (Figs. 1A, D, 2A–D, 5A, C, F, 6A, D); dorsal surface with welldefined regions, anterior regions covered with small, rounded or flattened, squamate granules (Figs. 1A, C, E, F, 2A–D, 5A, C, E, 6A, D); front deflexed, with 2 broad subtruncate lobes, separated by shallow median concavity; postfrontal, protogastric lobe prominent, sharp-edged (Figs. 1A, C, D, 2A–D, 3A, 6C, F); external orbital tooth acutely triangular, outer margins curving anteriorly, tooth directed obliquely and laterally, clearly extending beyond lateral margin of carapace (Figs. 2A–D, 5A, C, E, 6A, D). Merus of third maxilliped ...

JONGKAR GRINANG, PAUL Y. C. NG and PETER K. L. NG. 2026. A New Species of Vampire Crab of the Genus Geosesarma De Man, 1892 (Crustacea: Brachyura: Sesarmidae) from A montane forest in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology. 74; 457–464.

[Botany • 2026] Gentiana macneilliana (Gentianaceae) • A New Species Sikkim Himalaya (India) based on Morphological and Molecular Data

Gentiana macneilliana A.K.Halder & D.Maity, 

in Halder, Saha, Dwivedi, Banerjee, Jha, Pradhan, Maity et Pandey, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2089

Abstract

Gentiana macneilliana (Gentianaceae), a new species from North Sikkim, in the Eastern Himalayan region of India, is described, illustrated and discussed. It is morphologically similar to Gentiana lacinulata T.N.Ho of Gentiana sect. Chondrophyllae Bunge but differs markedly in having acute and usually mucronate leaf apex, ovate corolla lobes with acuminate apex, much longer plicae (1.5–2.6 mm), which are more than half as long as corolla lobes, and longer pedicel (up to 8 mm). This new species also resembles Gentiana muscicola C.Marquand (Gentiana sect. Chondrophyllae) but can easily be differentiated by its unique corolla lobe, shorter petiole, narrowly based leaf lamina, longer pedicel and shorter style. The affinity of the new species with Gentiana grata Harry Sm., a member of the same section, is also highlighted. A taxonomic description, images and illustrations of the new taxon are provided, along with a discussion of closely related taxa.

Keywords: Gentiana sect. Chondrophyllae, Eastern Himalaya, ITS, IUCN, trnL-F, new species

Gentiana macneilliana A.K.Halder & D.Maity, sp. nov.
A, Habitat; B and C, habit; D, open flower

Photographs: A. K. Halder (A–D) 

Gentiana macneilliana A.K.Halder & D.Maity, sp. nov.

Gentiana macneilliana is morphologically most similar to Gentiana lacinulata but differs from that species by its short petiole, 0.5–1.5 mm long (vs up to 3 mm); acute and usually mucronate leaf apex (vs obtuse leaf apex); narrowly revolute leaf margin (vs flat leaf margin); longer pedicel, up to 8 mm long (vs up to 3 mm long); ovate corolla lobes with acuminate apex (vs suborbicular with obtuse-rounded or rounded apex); much longer plicae, 1.5–2.6 mm long (vs 0.7–1 mm); and plicae more than 1/2 as long as corolla lobes (vs less than 1/3 as long as corolla lobes). It also resembles Gentiana muscicola but can be differentiated from that species by its unique ovate, acuminate corolla lobes with erose margin and distinctly contracted base (vs ovate–lanceolate or ovate–triangular, obtuse or subacute lobes with entire margin and widened base); short petiole, 0.5–1.5 mm long (vs up to 2.5 mm); narrowed leaf bases (vs rounded to cordate leaf bases); long pedicel, up to 8 mm (vs up to 3.1 mm); and short style, 1.5–1.9 mm (vs 3–4 mm). 

Etymology. The specific epithet ‘macneilliana’ is given in honour of Dr John McNeill, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (E), the legendary taxonomist and nomenclature specialist, who has given immense support with the nomenclature of Indian Gentiana.

A.K. Halder, S. Saha, M. D. Dwivedi, A. Banerjee, B. K. Jha, D. K. Pradhan, D. Maity and A. K. Pandey. 2026. Gentiana macneilliana (GENTIANACEAE), A New Species Sikkim Himalaya (India) based on Morphological and Molecular Data. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 83; 1-21. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2089 [2026-05-18]

[Entomology • 2026] Varitrella sulu & V. alternata • New Species and Bioacoustics of Varitrella (Cantotrella) (Orthoptera: Ensifera: Oecanthidae: Podoscirtinae) from Sulu Archipelago and Borneo’s Sabah

 

Varitrella (Cantotrella) sulu Haibil, Nuñeza & Tan, 

in Haibil, Nuñeza, Damit, Japir, Chung et Tan, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.1.4 

facebook.com: Arthur CHUNG 

 

Abstract

Two new species of Varitrella (Cantotrella) (Oecanthidae: Podoscirtinae) are described from Sulu Archipelago: Varitrella (Cantotrella) sulu Haibil, Nuñeza & Tan, sp. nov. and Varitrella (Cantotrella) alternata Haibil, Nuñeza & Tan, sp. nov. The calling songs of Varitrella (Cantotrella) sulu Haibil, Nuñeza & Tan, sp. nov. and Varitrella (Cantotrella) trusmadi Gorochov, 2014 are also described.

Orthoptera, Calling songs, East Malaysia, Philippines, Podoscirtini, Southeast Asia

Varitrella (Cantotrella) sulu Haibil, Nuñeza & Tan, sp. nov. 

Varitrella (Cantotrella) alternata Haibil, Nuñeza & Tan, sp. nov. 

HELEN H. HAIBIL, OLGA MACAS NUÑEZA, DAYANG FAZRINAH BINTI AWG DAMIT, RAZY JAPIR, ARTHUR Y.C. CHUNG and MING KAI TAN. 2026. New Species and Bioacoustics of Varitrella (Cantotrella) (Oecanthidae: Podoscirtinae) from Sulu Archipelago and Borneo’s Sabah.  Zootaxa. 5821(1); 61-77. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5821.1.4 [2026-05-28]

 facebook.com/ArthurCHUNG123799/posts/3545681898914705

[Ichthyology • 2026] Leptorhamdia kamilai • Phylogenetic Placement and Description of A New Species of Leptorhamdia (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) from the Amazon Basin

Leptorhamdia kamilai

Silva, Reia, Souza, Ywamoto & Oliveira, 2026

 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2025-0037  

 

Abstract

Brachyglaniini is a recently described tribe of Heptapterinae, composed of four genera: Brachyglanis, Gladioglanis, Leptorhamdia, and Myoglanis. Expeditions to the Aripuanã and Tapajós River basins revealed an undescribed species of Brachyglaniini, characterized by a conspicuous light-colored band posterior to the head. Our phylogenetic results provide strong evidence that this new Brachyglaniini species belongs to the genus Leptorhamdia and is closely related to L. marmorata and L. aspredinoides. In addition to the color pattern, the new species can be distinguished from its congeners by having 19-22 anal-fin rays and 47 vertebrae.

Keywords: Brazilian shield; Catfish; Integrative taxonomy; Systematics

 Leptorhamdia kamilai
Left column: holotype, DZSJRP 16293, 92.4 mm SL.
Right column: paratypes, LBP 30639, from top to bottom: 66.3 mm SL; 47.8 mm SL; 31.4 mm SL.

Live specimens of Leptorhamdia kamilai, paratype, LBP 30639, 66.3 mm SL. Photographed by Eric V. Ywamoto. 
 Habitat: rio dos Patos, tributary of the upper Arinos River in Tapajós River basin.

Leptorhamdia kamilai, new species

 Diagnosis. Leptorhamdia kamilai can be readily distinguished among its congeners by having a conspicuous light collar-band, yellowish in live specimens, posterior to the head (vs. coloration uniformly throughout body and head, lacking any distinctive bar). Additionally, L. kamilai differs from its congeners by having 19-22 anal-fin rays (vs. 17 in L. essequibensis; 15 in L. marmorata; 32-35 in L. aspredinoides; 12 in L. nocturna, 15-16 in L. schultzi) and by having 46-47 vertebrae (vs. 45 in L. essequibensis; 43 in L.marmorata; 38 in L. nocturna; 56-57 vertebrae in L. aspredinoides and 43 vertebrae in L. schultzi).

Etymology. The specific name, kamilai, honors our dear friend Dr. Kamila Mayumi Duarte Kuabara, an entomologist and lab manager of the Ornithology Department at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. A noun in a genitive case.

Gabriel de S. C. Silva, Lais Reia, Camila S. Souza, Eric V. Ywamoto and Claudio Oliveira. 2026. Phylogenetic Placement and Description of A New Species of Leptorhamdia (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) from the Amazon Basin. Neotrop. ichthyol. 24 (01); DOI: doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2025-0037  

[Botany • 2025] Phalaenopsis quadridentata (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Aeridinae) • A New orchid Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India

 Phalaenopsis quadridentata M.Khanal & Kumar,

in Khanal, Ari, Lendo, Singpho, Sarkar, D. Kumar et P. Kumar. 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.704.2.7  

  facebook.com: Madhusudhan KHANAL

Abstract   

Phalaenopsis quadridentata is described as a new species from Arunachal Pradesh, India. Morphologically, this species looks similar to, Phalaenopsis mirabilis and Phalaenopsis putaoensis. However, the new species is a leafy plant bearing up to 4 flowers; sepals and petals bent backwards; labellum almost cochleate with ovate to elliptic midlobe, midrib not prominent, margin entire and ovate apex; lateral lobes of the labellum triangular, raised and arched above convergently with tips touching each other; 4 tooth-like triangular appendages at the junction of labellum and column, conical spur with densely pubescent inner surface and anther cap that is ovoid, entire, rounded. Whereas, P. mirabilis is a leafy plant bearing more than 5 flowers; sepals and petals bend forwards; labellum midlobe diamond-shaped, non-cochleate, midrib prominent and raised along its length, margin undulate and acute apex; lateral lobes truncate, erect parallelly; a high-raising linear appendage with a pointed triangular tip at the junction of labellum and column, deeply saccate spur without any hairs or ornamentation at the inner surface and anther cap ovoid with three triangular teeth at apex. Phalaenopsis putaoensis is a leafless plant bearing more than 5 flowers on one inflorescence; sepals and petals erect and spreading, labellum midlobe rhomboid and yellowish white; lacking spur; 2 raised calli from the base till apex; 2 minute slender, antenna-like appendages at the junction of labellum and column. A detailed taxonomic description, photos and notes on phenology, habitat and conservation assessment have been provided. 

Aeridinae, Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, Flora of India, moth orchids, taxonomy, Monocots

Phalaenopsis quadridentata 

Madhusudhan KHANAL, Veeresh Huchappa ARI, Pakgam Ngulom LENDO, Jaseng SINGPHO, Shuvadip SARKAR, Devendra KUMAR and Pankaj KUMAR. 2025. Phalaenopsis quadridentata (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae), A New orchid Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India. Phytotaxa. 704(2); 196-202. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.704.2.7 [2025-06-06]

  facebook.com/MadhusudhanKHANAL18/posts/4904190649805989

 

[Botany • 2026] Impatiens lancifolia (Balsaminaceae) • A New scapigerous Species from the Peak Wilderness [Sri Lankan Balsaminaceae Study I]

Impatiens lancifolia C.Bandara, Atthanagoda & Kariyawasam, 

in Bandara, Atthanagoda, Adhikari et Kariyawasam, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.758.3.6  

 facebook.com: Champika BANDARA  

 

Abstract 

Impatiens lancifolia (Balsaminaceae), a new scapigerous species is described from the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, Central Highlands of Sri Lanka based on the morphological evidence. This new species resembles I. scapiflora and I. acaulis but, differs by having almost glabrous, lanceolate leaves with scattered hairs along the midrib and lateral veins, 2–3 pairs of lateral nerves, reddish stamen apex forming a red colour ring around androecium. A completed description, photographs, illustration and notes on their ecology and distribution are provided.

Balsam hotspot, Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Endemic flora, scapigerous, taxonomy, Eudicots

Impatiens lancifolia C.Bandara, Atthanagoda & Kariyawasam sp. nov.

 

CHAMPIKA BANDARA, ANUSHA GAYAN ATTHANAGODA, HIMASH ADHIKARI and ISURU U. KARIYAWASAM. 2026. Sri Lankan Balsaminaceae Study I: Impatiens lancifolia, A New scapigerous Species from the Peak Wilderness.  Phytotaxa. 758(3); 277-284. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.758.3.6 [2026-05-26]

ශ්‍රී ලංකාවට ආවේණික පළමු හා එකම scapigerous කූඩලු විශේෂය

The first and only scapigerous scapigerous species endemic to Sri Lanka

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[Botany • 2026] Psittacanthus job-kuijtii • Novelties in Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia: A New Species and four new records for the Andean and Amazon Regions

 

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii F.J.Roldán, Carmona & J.S.Murillo,

in Carmona-Gallego, Roldán-Palacio et Murillo-Serna, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.1886910 

 

Abstract

Background and aims – Psittacanthus is the largest genus of neotropical mistletoes within Loranthaceae, comprising approximately 110 species. With 37 species recorded to date, Colombia stands as the most diverse country for this group of aerial hemiparasites. Despite this richness, a comprehensive national or regional taxonomic revision of these mistletoes is currently lacking. This study aims to update the knowledge of Colombian Psittacanthus diversity by describing a new species and reporting new records for the country.

Material and methods – This study is based on an extensive literature review and the examination of herbarium material of Psittacanthus. We examined herbarium specimens using both physical collections and high-resolution digital images. Morphological analyses were conducted using dried and rehydrated samples, following the standardized specialized terminology for neotropical mistletoes. Taxonomic descriptions and diagnoses were developed to establish and test taxonomic hypotheses, ensuring a rigorous comparison between focal taxa and previously described species.

Key results – A new species for the Colombian Andes is described, and four new records for the Amazonian and Andean–Amazonian Piedmont of Colombia are reported. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii sp. nov. is described and illustrated herein; this species inhabits the moist lowland forests of the Colombian inter-Andean valleys, which are areas containing exceptional biodiversity. Furthermore, P. amazonicus, P. lamprophyllus, P. pilanthus, and P. zonatus are recorded for the first time for Colombia. The description of this new species and the additional records increase the known diversity of Colombian Psittacanthus to 41 taxa and a total of 111 species for the genus.

Keywords: Andes, flora of Colombia, mistletoe, Psittacantheae, Santalales, taxonomy

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii.
 A. Habit. B. Flower, showing from bottom to top: the upper portion of the flower pedicel, cupule with bract followed by the ovary and calyculus, petals with their tips recurved at anthesis, and protruding stamens and pistil. C. Detail of vermicular projections on the margin of petal. D. Basal ligule in front view. E. Basal ligule in lateral view.

 Based on the holotype (David et al. 6371, HUA). Illustration by Diego Zapata (HUA).

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii.
 A. Triad of an inflorescence showing basal floral parts (flower pedicels and cupule with bract, ovary, calyculus, and proximal portion of petals). B. Flower buds. C. Flower at anthesis with recurved petals.

Photographs from the holotype (David et al. 6371, HUA) by Esteban Domínguez. 

Figure composition by Diego Zapata (HUA).

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii F.J.Roldán, Carmona & J.S.Murillo, sp nov.

 

Diagnosis. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii differs from the remaining species in the genus by the combination of the following characters: percurrent shoots; leaf blades ovate to broadly lanceolate, base truncate to rounded, margins revolute and adaxially extending toward the petiole, forming a V-shaped projection, apex attenuate to acuminate; inflorescences usually double triads, rarely triple triads, or a monad with two triads (all variations were observed in the holotype); flowers 4–5 cm long in pre-anthesis; petals red to orange in the proximal and medial portions and yellow distally with a deltoid, fleshy basal ligule bearing minute papillae, 1.8–2 mm long; stamens dimorphic, staminal hairs absent. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii is similar to P. peronopetalus, but differs from it by having usually double (rarely triple) triads (vs umbels of four triads), and flowers opening at anthesis with petals recurved for about 2 cm (vs flowers opening only at the apex, with petals recurved for no more than 2 mm).

Isabel Carmona-Gallego, Francisco J. Roldán-Palacio and Jhon S. Murillo-Serna. 2026. Novelties in Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia: A New Species and four new records for the Andean and Amazon Regions. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 159(2): 347-355.  DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.1886910 [2 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana (Annonaceae) • Phylogenetic and Morphological Evidence supports the Recognition of A New Species from southern Thailand

Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku, 

in Yoosukkee, Damthongdee, Aongyong, Baka, Sama-ae et Chaowasku, 2026. 

รุจิสิริน  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.02  

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Abstract

Based on the molecular phylogenetic analyses of six plastid DNA regions (matK and rbcL exons; trnL intron; atpB-rbcL, psbA-trnH and trnL-trnF intergenic spacers) and including 57 samples of Pseuduvaria, as well as thorough morphological studies, Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana (Annonaceae, Miliuseae) is described and illustrated here as a new species from Narathiwat, southern Thailand. The new species belongs to a major clade that also includes P. fragrans, P. gardneri, P. glossopetala, P. kwangtungensis, P. multiovulata and P. phuyensis. Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana is morphologically most similar to P. glossopetala, but differs by having basally connate (vs. free) sepals, larger petals, elliptic-ovate (vs. obovate) outer petals, inner petals that are only connivent at the apex (vs. connivent from the base to ± the midpoint and at the apex), with openings formed from the base (vs. openings formed from ± the midpoint). Pseuduvaria kwangtungensis turns out to be a putative sister of the new species, but the two are morphologically dissimilar in several traits, such as leaf base, inner petal appearance and glands on the inner side of the inner petals.

Keywords: Magnoliids; Malmeoideae; Miliuseae; Pseuduvaria; Systematics; Taxonomy; Thailand

Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku.
 a. Inflorescences with flowers, from living material of Aongyong & Baka 55.
b. Infructescence with monocarps, from living material of Aongyong & Baka 56.

— Photographs by A. Baka.

 Holotype of Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku (Aongyong & Baka 55, CMUB).

Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana Yoosukkee, Damth. & Chaowasku sp. nov. 

 Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana differs from the morphologically most similar species, P. glossopetala, by having basally connate (vs. free) sepals, larger petals, elliptic-ovate (vs. obovate) outer petals, inner petals that are only connivent at the apex (vs. connivent at the apex and from the base to ± the midpoint), with openings formed from the base (vs. openings formed from ± the midpoint). 

Etymology — The specific epithet honours H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, who has continuously supported the study of plant taxonomy in Thailand and worldwide, on the auspicious occasion of her 72nd (6th cycle) birthday anniversary (2 April 2027). She has also been instrumental in establishing the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative (RSPG), which aims to train personnel and develop plant genetic resources for the conservation of plant diversity, with benefits extending to farmers and related sectors of the country.

Vernacular name — Ruchi Sirin (รุจิสิริน).

  C. Yoosukkee, Anissara Damthongdee, Kithisak Aongyong Chanthamrong, Abdulromea Baka, I. Sama-ae and Tanawat Chaowasku. 2026. Molecular Phylogenetic and Morphological Evidence supports the Recognition of Pseuduvaria sirindhorniana (Annonaceae), A New Species from southern Thailand.   Blumea - Biodiversity, Evolution and Biogeography of Plants. DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.02 [May 26, 2026]

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[Entomology • 2026] Dolichopoda balrogi • Delving too Deep: Morphological and Molecular Description of A New Cave-dwelling Dolichopoda (Orthoptera: Rhaphidophoridae) from Kastellorizo Island, Greece

 

  Dolichopoda balrogi  Kalaentzis & Alexiou, 

 A. Female individual. B. Male individual. C. Juvenile.

in Kalaentzis, Alexiou, Christopoulos, Minoudi, Koutsogiannopoulos, Kotselis et Triantafyllidis, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jor.35.187943

Photos: K. Kalaentzis.

Abstract

A new species of cave cricket, Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov., is described from the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Dodecanese, Levantine Sea). The species is documented from artificial subterranean habitats, as no accessible natural caves are known on the island. Detailed morphological analysis of both sexes reveals a unique combination of characters, including the structure of the male epiphallus, the shape of the tenth tergite, the presence of styli on the male subgenital plate, and the morphology of the female ovipositor, which clearly differentiate it from all known congeners. Comparative morphology indicates strong affinities with Anatolian species of Dolichopoda, particularly D. sbordonii and D. lycia, and no close relationship with the Aegean species complex occurring on islands of East Aegean and the adjacent Anatolian coast. These affinities are further supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses inferred from DNA barcoding. Both Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses consistently recover the Kastellorizo lineage as a distinct and well-supported clade nested within the southwestern Anatolian lineage of the genus. The discovery of D. balrogi sp. nov. represents the first documented occurrence of an Anatolian lineage of Dolichopoda within European territory, underscoring the unique biogeographical character of Kastellorizo as a Greek territory with pronounced Anatolian biogeographical affinities. This finding emphasizes the importance of integrated morphological and molecular approaches in resolving species boundaries and evolutionary relationships and contributes to the growing evidence of underestimated biodiversity in the eastern Mediterranean region.

Keywords: Anatolia, artificial tunnel, DNA barcoding, endemic species, Megisti, molecular phylogeny, new species, subterranean fauna

Individuals of the newly discovered Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov. in the artificial tunnel of Kastellorizo on 17 October 2025.
 A. Female individual. B. Male individual. C. Juvenile.

Photo credit: K. Kalaentzis.

Dolichopoda (Dolichopoda) balrogi Kalaentzis & Alexiou, sp. nov.

Diagnosis.— Because of the unarmed fore and middle femora, the new species described here belongs to the genus Dolichopoda. It is a member of subgenus Dolichopoda because of the absence of spines on all femora, the presence of spines on the fore tibia, and the non-bifurcated median process of the epiphallus. The new species is similar to D. sbordonii, a species endemic to the adjacent Anatolian coast. Both share a non-bilobate median process of epiphallus and the presence of styli at the subgenital plate of the male. The new species differs mainly in the shape of the median process of epiphallus (trapezoidal vs triangular) and the shape of the X tergite of the male (traces of lateral lobes vs lateral lobes). The female of D. sbordonii differs mainly by the shorter ovipositor with smaller number of denticles on the ventral valve. Dolichopoda lycia is a species also present on the adjacent coast. It shares with D. balrogi sp. nov. the shape of the tenth male tergite, with only inconspicuous lateral lobes and a similar ovipositor in females, with 15 denticles on the ventral valve. It differs in the bilobed median process of the epiphallus and the absence of styli.

 Konstantinos Kalaentzis, Sotiris Alexiou, Apostolos Christopoulos, Styliani Minoudi, David Koutsogiannopoulos, Christos Kotselis and Alexandros Triantafyllidis. 2026. Delving too Deep: Morphological and Molecular Description of the Cave-dwelling Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov. (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) from Kastellorizo Island, Greece. Journal of Orthoptera Research. 35(2): 259-266. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jor.35.187943 [27 May 2026]