[Botany • 2025] Lepanthes vespertina (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae) • A New Species from Costa Rica

 

Lepanthes vespertina Bogarín, M.Rodríguez & L.Ulloa, 

in Bogarín, Rodríguez-Cáceres et Ulloa-Vargas, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.714.3.4 

Researchgate.net/publication/394682026

 

Abstract

Lepanthes is the second most diverse orchid genus in Costa Rica, with 165 recorded species, 31.5% of which are endemic. Several new species have recently been described as part of the Flora Costaricensis–Orchidaceae project led by the Lankester Botanical Garden. However, the taxonomy of Lepanthes still presents historical gaps, particularly regarding collections made by botanist A. R. Endrés between 1866 and 1870, some of which remain poorly documented. In this study, we describe and illustrate a new species, Lepanthes vespertina, which is morphologically similar to L. umbonifera, a species originally collected and illustrated by Endrés in 1867 and described by C. Luer in 1995. To confirm the identity of the new species, we conducted field collections in the province of Cartago and reviewed herbarium specimens, digital types, and Endrés’ original illustrations. The new species differs from L. umbonifera by its ruby-colored, obovate petals (vs. cinnabar-red, cuneate petals in L. umbonifera). The labellum is bilaminate, with obovate blades that converge beneath the apex of the column (vs. ovate, straight, and separated blades in L. umbonifera), and it bears a cylindrical, pubescent, and bifid appendix (vs. globose and apiculate). The results clarify some taxonomic uncertainties derived from Endrés’ historical records and demonstrate the importance of incorporating illustrations from old collections into modern taxonomic work.

Augustus R. Endrés, illustration, Lepanthes umbonifera, Lepanthes subdimidiata, new species, Monocots

 

Lepanthes vespertina Bogarín, M.Rodríguez & L.Ulloa, sp. nov. 

 Etymology:—Derived from the Latin vespertinus, belonging to the evening, and referring to the colour of the petals, which are like those of a sunset.

 

Diego BOGARÍN, Marisal RODRÍGUEZ-CÁCERES and Lisseth ULLOA-VARGAS. 2025. Lepanthes vespertina (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae), A New Species from Costa Rica. Phytotaxa. 714(3); 237-245. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.714.3.4 [2025-08-13]

 Researchgate.net/publication/394682026_Lepanthes_vespertina_a_new_species_from_Costa_Rica

[Herpetology • 2026] Leptobrachium mechuka & L. somani • Abundance in Secret: A Review of the Genus Leptobrachium (Anura: Megophryidae) in India, with Descriptions of Two New Species

Leptobrachium mechuka
 Leptobrachium somani 

  Sarmah, Garg, Tajo, Upadhyaya, Hanken & Biju, 2026 

  

DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20397 

Abstract 

Of the 39 currently recognized species in the Slender Armed Frog genus Leptobrachium, four are reported from India, Leptobrachium aryatium, L. bompu, L. smithi, and L. sylheticum. Based on new collections, we review these reported species by integrating molecular, morphological, and behavioral data. Our comparative analyses of external and internal morphology as well as molecular data and acoustic properties reveal two new species-level lineages from the Lower Dibang Valley and Shi Yomi districts of Arunachal Pradesh, India, which we describe here as new species. Phylogenetically, Leptobrachium mechuka sp. nov. and Leptobrachium somani sp. nov. are members of the L. bompu species group, but they are distinct from L. bompu sensu stricto by DNA sequence divergence in the 16S mitochondrial rRNA gene of 3.6–4.2% and 4.5–4.7%, respectively. A population previously identified as L. cf. bompu from Medog County, China, is also assignable to Leptobrachium mechuka sp. nov. Each new species is distinguished from congeners by a combination of diagnostic morphological characters, including in the case of Leptobrachium somani sp. nov., a unique advertisement call comprising two distinct call types; unicolored silvery white iris; moderately large webbing between toes; and ventral coloration. Leptobrachium mechuka sp. nov. on the other hand, is distinguishable by its head length equal to width; nostril equidistant from the snout tip and the eye; internarial distance equal to the distances from nostril to eye and from nostril to snout tip; distance from the tip of inner metatarsal tubercle to the tip of first toe shorter than the length of inner metatarsal tubercle itself; and frontoparietals separated at the midline by a moderate fontanelle. Analyses of multiple new populations representing members of the L. smithi group reveal that L. smithi is absent from the Indian fauna; all previous records attributed to this species from India instead represent L. aryatium or L. sylheticum. These discoveries highlight the prevalence of taxonomic misidentifications in the absence of detailed systematic studies as well as the underestimation of diversity in the genus Leptobrachium, not only from India but across its known range. Our results underscore the need for dedicated surveys that document amphibian diversity in underexplored regions of Northeast India.

Keywords: Amphibia, Arunachal Pradesh, Bioacoustics, Cranial osteology, Integrative taxonomy, Leptobrachium bompu group, Leptobrachium smithi group, Mitochondrial phylogeny, Northeast India, Tadpoles 

Phylogenetic relationships of the genus Leptobrachium and geographical distribution of species in India.

Geographical distributions of five Leptobrachium species herein recognized to occur in India.

Distribution of Leptobrachium bompu and L. smithi species groups in South and Southeast Asia.

Holotype and paratype of Leptobrachium mechuka sp. nov. in life.
 (A–J) Holotype ZSI A16315: (A) Dorsolateral view. (B) Dorsal view. (C) Ventral view. (D) Lateral view. (E) Posterior view of thighs. (F) Dorsal view of thighs. (G) Ventral view of hand. (H) Enlarged view of palmar tubercles on hand. (I) Ventral view of foot. (J) Dorsal view of foot. (K) Referred specimen (SDBDU 2025.6768) Dorsolateral view. (L, M) Paratype (ZSI A16316). (L) Dorsolateral view. (M) Enlarged view of eye. Photographs: T. Tajo.

Holotype and paratypes of Leptobrachium somani sp. nov. in life.
 (A–D) Dorsolateral view: (A) Paratype (ZSI A16335). (B) Paratype (ZSI A16336). (C) Referred specimen (SDBDU 2025.6773). (D) Holotype (ZSI A16333). (E–G) Paratype (ZSI A16336): (E) Frontal view. (F) Lateral view of head. (G) Enlarged view of eye. Photographs: S.D. Biju.

Leptobrachium mechuka sp. nov. 

 Leptobrachium somani sp. nov.,

 

 

A.N. Dikshit Akalabya Sarmah, Sonali Garg, Tage Tajo, Radhakrishna Upadhyaya K., James Hanken and S.D. Biju​. 2026. Abundance in Secret: A Review of the Genus Leptobrachium (Anura, Megophryidae) in India, with Descriptions of Two New Species. PeerJ. 14:e20397. DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20397 [January 9, 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Metapetrocosmea culaochamensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Vietnam

 

Metapetrocosmea culaochamensis C. H. Nguyen, N. H. Dang et C. W. Lin, 

in C. H. Nguyen, D. H. Nguyen, Vo, Averyanov, M. H. T. Nguyen, Pham et Lin, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.28.1.15  

 Researchgate.net/publication/391678745

Abstract 

A new species, Metapetrocosmea culaochamensis, discovered in central Vietnam, is described and illustrated. This species resembles M. poilanei but differs in its inflorescence in form of compound cymes with 2 or 3 orders of branching (vs. simple cyme, with 1 order of branching), larger bracts, 10–14 × 7–8.5 mm (vs. ca. 3 × 1.5 mm), corolla tube funnelform (vs. obliquely campanulate), and the stigma with an emarginate apex (vs. entire). In addition, Paraboea myriantha, a species previously known from China, is recorded for the first time in northern Vietnam, which essentially expands the known area of this species.

Keywords: endemism, flora of Vietnam, plant diversity, plant taxonomy

 

Metapetrocosmea culaochamensis C. H. Nguyen, N. H. Dang et C. W. Lin, sp. nov. 

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the name of Cu Lao Cham Islands, where the new species was discovered. 

 

Cuong H. Nguyen, Dang H. Nguyen, Hai D. Vo, Leonid V. Averyanov, My H. T. Nguyen, Toai Minh Pham, Che W. Lin. 2025. A New Species Metapetrocosmea culaochamensis and a new record of Paraboea myriantha (Gesneriaceae) from Vietnam. Turczaninowia. 28(1); 146–154. DOI: doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.28.1.15  

 Researchgate.net/publication/391678745_A_new_species_Metapetrocosmea_culaochamensis_from_Vietnam

[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 • 2026] Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Phek District, Nagaland, Northeast India

Hoya nagaensis Koza, Pegu & G.Yam, 

in Koza, Pegu et Yam. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10359-9

Summary

Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from the state of Nagaland, India is here described and illustrated. The new species has close morphological affinity with H. thomsonii and H. coronaria. It can be clearly distinguished by its densely hairy corolla lobes, both internally and externally; irregular pinkish to reddish-purple spots on the external corolla surface and, though less pronounced, on the inner surface and narrowly elliptic-lanceolate leaves, with smooth surfaces and long acuminate tips. A detailed morphological description, habitat information, preliminary conservation assessment, notes and comparison with closely related species, H. coronaria, H. carnosa, H. spectatissima, H. bella and H. thomsonii are provided.

Key Words: Eastern Himalaya, epiphyte, Kavünhou Community Reserved Forest, temperate forest 

 

Hoya nagaensis 
 in Kavünhou CRF, Khezhakeno, Phek, India.

Hoya nagaensis Koza, Pegu & G.Yam sp. nov. 

Etymology. The specific epithet “nagaensis” is dedicated to “Nagaland”, where the new species was discovered. The name honours both the cultural and ecological significance of the locality, reflecting the close relationship between the Naga community and the surrounding forest ecosystem.

 

Vieneite-o Koza, Joynath Pegu and Gyati Yam. 2026. Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) — A New Species from Phek District, Nagaland, Northeast India. Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10359-9  [08 January 2026]

[Mollusca • 2025] Clione japonica • A New cryptic Species of Clione (Gastropoda: Gymnosomata) in deep waters of the Japan Sea (East Sea) and shallow waters of the southern Okhotsk Sea

 

Clione japonica

Tomoyasu, Hiroshi & Jing, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2025.10.002

Abstract

We describe a new cryptic species of Clione from intermediate and deep waters of the Japan Sea (East Sea) and from shallow coastal waters of the southern Okhotsk Sea. Diagnosis is based on a suite of stable morphological traits—particularly laterally extended foot lobes and a broader central radular tooth—with c oxidase subunit I (COI) data providing supplementary support. Maximum likelihood analyses of the COI dataset resolved two sister clades: specimens from the Japan Sea (East Sea) occurred only in the clade that also contains the new species, whereas specimens from the southern Okhotsk Sea occurred in both. In contrast, Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery, applied to the same alignment, recovered a single molecular operational taxonomic unit (MOTU) consistent with shallow divergence and the lack of a clear barcode gap. As COI distances from C. okhotensis Yamazaki & Kuwahara, 2017, are modest, we rely primarily on morphology and reciprocal monophyly for species recognition, with COI data playing a supplementary role. We hypothesize that hydrographic structure and Late Quaternary isolation of the Japan Sea (East Sea) shaped this lineage, and that its occurrence in the Okhotsk Sea reflects transport by regional water masses. The new species highlights hidden diversity in pelagic pteropods and the role of semi-enclosed seas in fostering regional differentiation.

Keywords: Clione, COI gene, gymnosomata, Japan Sea (East Sea), taxonomy

  The new species Clione japonica sp. nov., holotype (SMRZ M20):
A, front view; B, dorsal view; C, right-side view; D, left-side view

<scale bars: 2 mm (A–D)>.

Family CLIONIDAE Rafinesque, 1815

Genus Clione Pallas, 1774

Clione japonica sp. nov.  

Diagnosis. Body with three ciliated rings (anterior, mid-body, tail region). No space between head tentacles and mouth. Lateral foot lobes ellipsoidal and extending outward. Visceral mass bright orange to red, occupying much of the anterior body (Figure 2, Figure 3B). Radula with broad central tooth and protruding lateral expansions (Figure 4, Figure 5).

Etymology. The species name japonica refers to the location of first discovery, the Japan Sea (East Sea).

Distribution. Known from deep waters of the Japan Sea (East Sea) (JSPW and JSIW) and shallow waters of the southern Okhotsk Sea.

 Yamazaki Tomoyasu, Shimada Hiroshi and Zhang Jing. 2025. A New cryptic Species of Clione (Gastropoda) in deep waters of the Japan Sea (East Sea) and shallow waters of the southern Okhotsk Sea. Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity. In Press, DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2025.10.002 [7 November 2025]

[Entomology • 2025] Crematogaster epispina • A New twig-nesting Species of the Crematogaster quadriruga group (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Vietnam

Crematogaster epispina  Hosoishi, 

in Hosoishi & Pham, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2025.08.003

 Abstract

A new species of the ant genus Crematogaster is described from the worker and queen castes. Crematogaster epispina sp. nov., belonging to the Crematogaster quadriruga group, is discovered in a dead twig on a tree in Vietnam. Crematogaster epispina sp. nov. is distinguished from other members by having the propodeal spines curving upward and propodeal spiracles touching the metapleural gland bulla. An updated key to the species of the C. quadriruga group is proposed.

Keywords: Asia, Cuc Phuong National Park, dead twig, Orthocrema, taxonomy

 Crematogaster epispina sp. nov.:
A–C, holotype worker (HW, 0.42; WL, 0.47) (KUECANT051); A, body in profile view; B, full-face view of head; C, body in dorsal view.
D–F, paratype dealate queen (HW, 0.76; WL, 1.58) (KUECANT054); D, body in profile view; E,full-face view of head; F, body in dorsal view.

<scale bar: 0.5 mm>

Crematogaster epispina Hosoishi, sp. nov.

Diagnosis of worker. Antennal scape reaching posterolateral corners of the head. Propodeal spines thick and up-curved. Propodeal spiracle large and attached to the metapleural gland bulla. Subpetiolar process weakly developed. Subpostpetiolar process undeveloped, but venter of the postpetiole convex. Integument essentially smooth and shiny.

Diagnosis of queen. Antennal scape not reaching posterolateral corners of the head. Subpetiolar process low, with a ventral angle. Dorsal surface of the head smooth and shiny. Clypeus smooth.

Etymology. The species name refers to the upwardly directed propodeal spine of the species.

 

Shingo Hosoishi and Thai Hong Pham. 2025. Description of A New twig-nesting Species of the Crematogaster quadriruga group (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Vietnam, with an updated key. Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity. In Press, DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2025.08.003 [27 September 2025]

 

[Ichthyology • 2026] Hemitrygon ariakensis • Redescription of Hemitrygon akajei with Description of the cryptic stingray species (Myliobatoidei: Dasyatidae) from the Northwest Pacific

Hemitrygon ariakensis  

 Furumitsu & Yamaguchi, 2025. 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s10228-025-01048-5 

Researchgate.net/publication/398875566

Abstract

We redescribe Hemitrygon akajei (Bürger in Müller and Henle 1841) based on the lectotype and newly collected specimens, and describe Hemitrygon ariakensis sp. nov. from western Japan. Owing to their considerable morphological similarity and sympatric distribution, these two species have been subject to longstanding taxonomic confusion, with one remaining unrecognized as a cryptic species for over 160 years prior to the availability of molecular evidence. The red stingray H. akajei was originally described from six syntypes, including juveniles that likely represented multiple species, including the cryptic one. Species identification in Hemitrygon is complicated not only by interspecific morphological resemblance but also by marked ontogenetic changes between juveniles and adults. Herein, we describe the external morphology of both species across developmental stages to aid in their distinction. Hemitrygon akajei and Hemitrygon ariakensis sp. nov. can be distinguished by the following combination of characters: arrangement of denticles on dorsal surface of disc and posterior part of tail; shape, size, and arrangement of thorns on dorsal tail anterior to caudal spine; presence or absence of transverse groove on ventral surface of disc; coloration of ventral tail fold; shape of outer marginal color band on ventral disc; morphology of clasper and prepelvic processes of pelvic girdle; and number of prespine separate centra. Stingrays are important fishery resources and key mesopredators in Japanese coastal ecosystems, influencing populations of other fishery species. The ability to distinguish these two species will facilitate more accurate ecological research, inform species-specific conservation strategies, and promote effective biodiversity management. Such taxonomic resolution is essential for understanding coastal ecosystem dynamics. 

Keywords: Taxonomy, New species, Cryptic species, Western Japan, Ariake Bay

Fresh specimens of Hemitrygon ariakensis sp. nov.
a, b Holotype (FFNU-P-02129, 363.3 mm DW, male, mature); c, d paratype (FFNU-P-02126, 154.4 mm DW, male, immature); e, f paratype (FFNU-P-02141, 545.1 mm DW, female, mature). a, c, e Dorsal view; b, d, f ventral view. Scales indicate 50 mm

Illustrations originally considered Hemitrygon akajei; herein reidentified as Hemitrygon ariakensis sp. nov. based on the morphological characters depicted.
a Original illustration from Bürger’s unpublished manuscript (No. 13; RMNH.ART.256, courtesy of Naturalis Biodiversity Center, CC0 1.0), b illustration from the original description in Müller and Henle (1841), c illustration from the Glover Atlas, illustrated by Hagiwara (1915), in the collection of Nagasaki University Library.

 Keisuke Furumitsu and Atsuko Yamaguchi. 2025. Redescription of Hemitrygon akajei with Description of the cryptic stingray species Hemitrygon ariakensis sp. nov. from the Northwest Pacific (Myliobatoidei: Dasyatidae).  Ichthyological Research. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s10228-025-01048-5 [19 December 2025]

 Researchgate.net/publication/398875566_Redescription_of_Hemitrygon_akajei_with_description_of_Hemitrygon_ariakensis_sp_nov_from_the_Northwest_Pacific

[Ichthyology • 2026] ‘Geophagus’ pirangaensis • A New endemic pearl cichlid of the ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) species group from the Piranga River, upper Doce River Basin, southeastern Brazil

 

‘Geophagus’ pirangaensis  Assis, Dergam & Henschel, 

in Assis, Dergam, Cunha, Machado, Hrbek, Vicente, Queiroz et Henschel, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/jfb.70324

Abstract

A new species of pearl cichlid of the ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis species group, endemic to the Piranga River, a major tributary of the upper Doce River basin in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, is herein described. The new species is delimited using an integrative approach, with molecular-based species delimitation methods coupled with morphological diagnosis. For this, we developed a matrix containing 27 sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of species of the ‘G.’ brasiliensis species group obtained from GenBank and three new sequences generated in this work. The species delimitation method applied to the morphological characters was Population Aggregation Analysis (PAA), and the species delimitation methods applied to the nucleotide sequences were the branch coalescence methods: Bayesian Poisson Tree Processes (bPTP), General Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) single-threshold and GMYC multi-threshold. The three molecular-based species delimitation methods corroborate that the haplotypes of ‘Geophagus’ from the Piranga River represent a new species distinguished from all other in the ‘G.’ brasiliensis species group by exclusive presence of clear, rounded spots in the posteriormost dorsal-fin rays in fixed adult specimens, and the combination of the following morphological characters: long snout (46.22%–52.74% of head length), tall head (94.08%–101.15% of head length), terminal mouth, 25 or 26 longitudinal scales on the E0 series, 14 or 15 spines on the dorsal fin, absence of bluish dots on the most anterior soft rays of the anal fin in live specimens and absence of bluish and longitudinal lines in the basal region of the caudal fin of live specimens. This work is the first description of a new species of the ‘G.’ brasiliensis species group from the Doce River basin.

Keywords: Atlantic forest, fish taxonomy, freshwater fish, Geophagini, integrative taxonomy, mitochondrial DNA

‘Geophagus’ pirangaensis, new species from Piranga River, upper Doce basin, Ponte Nova municipality, Minas Gerais, Brazil:
top, MZUFV13723, live subadult specimen, 63.61 mm SL, collected by E. Henschel and photographed by C.E. de Assis;
bottom, MZUFV14666, live adult specimen, 96.21 mm SL, collected by C.E. de Assis and photographed by E. Henschel.

Scale bar: 10 mm.

‘Geophagus’ pirangaensis sp. n. Assis, Dergam & Henschel

 Diagnosis: ‘G.’ pirangaensis possess a unique diagnostic feature within the ‘G.’ brasiliensis group characterized by the presence of clear, rounded spots in the posteriormost dorsal-fin rays of fixed adult specimens (vs. absence, or, when present, spots are elliptical). It also differs from ‘G.’ brasiliensis by having a considerably longer snout (46.22%–52.74% HL vs. 38.36% HL) and terminal mouth (vs. subdorsal); from ‘G.’ diamantinensis by having a taller head (94.08%–101.15% HL vs. 77–86% HL) and terminal mouth (vs. subterminal); from ‘G.’ iporangensis by having a caudal fin with a rounded distal margin (vs. straight distal caudal-fin margin) and 25 or 26 longitudinal scales in the E0 series (vs. 27 or 28); from ‘G.’ itapicuruensis by having a dark and rounded mid-lateral spot of live specimens (vs. dark and vertically elliptical mid-lateral spot) and 14 or 15 spines on the dorsal fin (vs. 13); from ‘G.’ multiocellus by the absence of small bright spots in the central region of the bluish spots on the caudal fin of living specimens (vs. presence) and terminal mouth (vs. subterminal); from ‘G.’ obscurus by having small bluish spots in the opercular region of living specimens (vs. large bluish spots in the opercular region); from ‘G.’ rufomarginatus by the absence of bluish dots on the most anterior soft rays of the anal fin of living specimens (vs. presence), presence of denticles on gill rakers of the first branchial arch (vs. absence) and terminal mouth (vs. subterminal); and from ‘G.’ santosi by the absence of bluish and longitudinal lines in the basal region of the caudal fin of living specimens (vs. presence) and terminal mouth (vs. subterminal).

Cidimar E. de Assis, Jorge A. Dergam, Amanda F. Cunha, Valéria N. Machado, Tomas Hrbek, Natállia M. de F. Vicente, Victor de Queiroz and Elisabeth Henschel. 2026. A New endemic pearl cichlid of the ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) species group from the Piranga River, upper Doce River Basin, southeastern Brazil. Journal of Fish Biology. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/jfb.70324 [05 January 2026]  

[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] 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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[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]

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