[Herpetology • 2026] Back to Basics: Resurrecting Rhacophorus namdaphaensis Sarkar & Sanyal, 1985 (Anura: Rhacophoridae) from India

 

Rhacophorus namdaphaensis Sarkar & Sanyal, 1985

in Sengupta, Boruah, Jithin, Hussain, Purkayastha, Dutta et Das, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.26515/rzsi/v126/i1/2026/173045

Abstract 

The present study evaluates the taxonomic status of “Rhacophorus namdaphaensis” sensu stricto using morphology, molecular and acoustic tools. Our phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, morphological examination of type collections, and freshly collected topotypes, along with bioacoustics information, suggest that “Rhacophorus namdaphaensis” sensu stricto is a valid species. We provide the redescription for the species, describe the tadpole morphology and discuss the extended geographical distribution.

Keywords: Bioacoustics, Northeast India, phylogeny, redescription, synonym

Topotypes of Rhacophorus namdaphaensis in live condition.
(A-C) WII-ADA1312, (A) lateral view, (B) dorsal v i e w, (C) front view;
(D-F) WII-ADA1319, (D) dorsolateral view, (E) ventral view with granular belly skin in the inset, (F) lateral view showing groin and flank;
(G & H) WII-ADA1359, (G) lateral view, (H) ventral view; (I) dorsal view of WII-ADA3104.

Rhacophorus namdaphaensis in natural habitat.
(A-D) uncollected males from Namdapha Tiger Reserve; (E, F) uncollected males from Kamlang Tiger Reserve; (G) uncollected male from Tinkupani, Assam; (H) dorsal colour change under stress condition of the individual depicted in (E).

  Saibal Sengupta, Bitupan Boruah, Vijayan Jithin, Bakhtiar Hussain, Jayaditya Purkayastha and Sourav Dutta, Abhijit Das. 2026. Back to Basics: Resurrecting Rhacophorus namdaphaensis Sarkar and Sanyal, 1985 (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from India. Rec. zool. Surv. India. 126(1); 51-74. DOI: doi.org/10.26515/rzsi/v126/i1/2026/173045

 facebook.com/wiidehradunindia/posts/890337613787066

[Botany • 2026] Koenigia bingchachaensis (Polygonaceae) • A remarkable New Species from the Alpine Subnival of Bingchacha, Zayü, Xizang, China

Koenigia bingchachaensis  Bo Xu & H. Sun, 

in Xu, Sun et Luo. 2026.  

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.73290 

ABSTRACT

A new species, Koenigia bingchachaensis Bo Xu & H. Sun (Polygonaceae), is described and illustrated based on material from the alpine subnival of Zayü County, Xizang, China. The species is characterized by a perennial tufted habit, extensively developed braided-fissured rhizomes, numerous simple spreading stems, prominently petiolate (1.5–4.0 cm) and arched leaves, and paniculate inflorescences borne both terminal and axillary with a short, twisted rachis. Morphologically, it is closely allied to K. tortuosa and K. hookeri, but can be readily distinguished from both by a stable combination of vegetative and reproductive characters. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on complete plastome and nuclear ribosomal ITS sequences strongly support K. bingchachaensis as a distinct species, resolving it as a well-supported sister lineage to the clade comprising K. hookeri and K. tortuosa. The integrative taxonomic approach, combining detailed morphology with molecular data, unequivocally confirms the specific status of K. bingchachaensis. The discovery expands the known diversity of Koenigia and highlights the potential for uncovering unique plant lineages in the extreme alpine environments of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau.

Koenigia bingchachaensis: (A) sampling location; (B) plant habit; (C) type specimen; (D) plant showing underground roots; (E) the scanning electron micrographs of pollen grains and achenes; and (F) dissected structures of roots, inflorescence, perianth, ovary, and seeds.

Koenigia bingchachaensis Bo Xu & H. Sun sp. nov.  

 Diagnosis: Within the genus Koenigia, K. bingchachaensis is morphologically distinctive and highly diagnostic. Although it shares the characteristic of terminal paniculate with K. tortuosa and K. hookeri, the new species can be clearly differentiated by the following combination of features: its unique tufted growth habit; elongated and braided-fissured rhizomes that may fragment; simple and spreading stems; and leaves with prominent petioles (1.5–4.0 cm long) that are arched and enclose the plant. Addtionally, its paniculate inflorescences occur both terminal and axillary, with a short, twisted rachis often concealed within the leaf cluster. Taken together, these morphological characteristics support its distinction from all other known species in the genus Koenigia.

  Etymology: The specific epithet “bingchachaensis” refers to the renowned Bingchacha Highway (part of National Highway G219), also known as the new Yunnan-Xizang corridor, which traverses a remote and rugged region of the Himalayas. The type specimen was collected along this very road. The construction of this highway has been pivotal in providing access to this previously inaccessible and botanically underexplored area, leading directly to the discovery of this new species. The name thus commemorates the highway's role as a unique link between human engineering and scientific discovery, a conduit that unveiled a hidden natural treasure.

 

Bo Xu, Hang Sun, Dong Luo. 2026. Koenigia bingchachaensis (Polygonaceae), a remarkable New Species from the Alpine Subnival of Bingchacha, Zayü, Xizang, China. Ecology and Evolution. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.73290 [28 March 2026]

 

Koenigia bingchachaensis Bo Xu & H. Sun (Polygonaceae), a remarkable new species from the alpine subnival of Zayü County, Xizang, China, is described and illustrated. The integrative evidence from morphology and phylogenetics confirms the status of K. bingchachaensis as a new species, which also highlights the ongoing discovery of unique biodiversity in poorly explored alpine regions of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau.

[Herpetology • 2026] Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni • A New Species of Goniurosaurus (Gekkota: Eublepharidae) from Guangxi, China

Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni Chen & Chen, 

in H.-L. Chen, Yu, Y.-B. Li, Y.-H. Li et Z.-N. Chen. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.177343

 

Abstract

In recent years, with advances in field surveys and molecular biology research, many new species of Goniurosaurus have been discovered, enhancing our understanding of their diversity and distribution. In this study, we present an integrated analysis of morphological evidence and mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data to describe a new species from Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China: Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni sp. nov. This species can be distinguished morphologically from its congeners by a specific combination of characteristics: (1) 23 precloacal pores in males; (2) a grayish-white dorsal ground color on the head, body, and limbs covered with dense, irregular black blotches; (3) seven nasal scales surrounding the nostril; and (4) 101–108 midbody scale rows. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that this species forms a monophyletic lineage sister to G. araneus within the G. luii group, as supported by mitochondrial cyt b and 16S rRNA and nuclear C-mos gene sequences. Uncorrected pairwise genetic distances based on mitochondrial cyt b sequences range from 8.7% to 22.0% compared with those of all previously known species.

Key Words: Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni sp. nov., molecular phylogeny, morphology, taxonomy

Photograph of Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni sp. nov. from Guangxi, China in live.
A. Adult male (Holotype, GXNU2025101603); B. Adult female (Paratype, GXNU2025090812);
C. Adult female (Paratype, GXNU2025101601); D. Adult female (Paratype, GXNU2025101602).

 (Photos by Zening Chen and Hanzhang Cai).

Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni Chen & Chen, sp. nov.

  

Diagnosis. Goniurosaurus wuzhengjuni sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners through a distinct combination of morphological characteristics: (1) SVL 92.3–109.3 mm; (2) 0–1 internasals; (3) 2 gular scales bordering the internasals; (4) 8–9 gular scales bordering the postmentals; (5) 26–27 paravertebral tubercles between limb insertions; (6) 23 precloacal pores in males; (7) 7 nasal scales surrounding the nostril; (8) 9–10 sublabials; (9) 47–54 eyelid fringe scales or ciliaria; (10) 11–12 granular scales surrounding dorsal tubercles; (11) 21–22 dorsal tubercle rows at midbody and (12) 101–108 midbody scale rows; (13) 2 postcloacal tubercle present on each side; (14) a light yellow dorsal ground coloration on the head, body, and limbs covered with dense, irregular black blotches.

Hui-Ling Chen, Jia-Yi Yu, You-Bang Li, Yu-Hui Li, Ze-Ning Chen. 2026. A New Species of Goniurosaurus (Sauria, Gekkota, Eublepharidae) from Guangxi, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(2): 611-620. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.177343 [07 Apr 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Peliosanthes dawulingensis (Asparagaceae) • A New Species from Guangdong, Southern China

Peliosanthes dawulingensis  

in Ding, Xie, Le, Xiong, Fan, Sun et Feng, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.747.3.5 

 Researchgate.net/publication/402637761

Abstract

This study announces the discovery of a new plant species, Peliosanthes dawulingensis, from the Dawuling Provincial Nature Reserve in Guangdong, China. It resembles P. cupuliformis in its annular corona with a broad, flat top but differs by its longer inflorescence, pedicellate and pendulous flowers, distinct cylindrical style, and half‑inferior ovary. It was found growing in well-drained soils on a sparsely wooded slope within a river valley. Its highly restricted range and small population size lead us to assess its conservation status as Critically Endangered.

Convallariaceae, plant diversity, plant taxonomy, Monocots, Yunkai Mountain

XIN DING, ZHI-YI XIE, ZUO-YU LI, QIN-DAI XIONG, QIANG FAN, YAN-JUN SUN and HUI-ZHE FENG. 2026. Peliosanthes dawulingensis (Asparagaceae), A New Species from Guangdong, Southern China. Phytotaxa. 747(3); 289-294. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.747.3.5 [2026-03-18]

 Researchgate.net/publication/402637761_Peliosanthes_dawulingensis_a_new_species_from_Guangdong_Southern_China

[Crustacea • 2026] Caridina zhaoi • A New stygobiont atyid Shrimp (Decapoda: Caridea: Atyidae) from a limestone cave in Guizhou Province, China

 

Caridina zhaoi

Jiang, Zhou & Chen, 2026 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.182296

Abstract

A new stygobiont species of freshwater shrimp, Caridina zhaoi sp. nov., from a karst cave in Guiyang, Guizhou Province, southwestern China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically distinct from its epigean congeners by a suite of stygobiotic characters, including the degeneration of eyes and absence of body pigmentation. It can be further distinguished from other known Chinese cavernicolous Caridina species by the combination of a relatively long rostrum with a specific rostral formula, the length of the stylocerite, the proportions of various joints of the first and second pereiopods, and the armature of the dactylus of the third and fifth pereiopods. Molecular analysis based on the mitochondrial COI gene reveals a high genetic divergence (14.70%–23.47%) between the new species and other atyids, supporting its validity as a distinct species. This discovery brings the total number of stygobiont Caridina species in China to 10, highlighting the rich but underestimated subterranean biodiversity of the Guizhou karst region.

Key Words: COI, Crustacea, morphology, stygofauna, subterranean biodiversity, taxonomy

A. The entrance of Xiangshui Cave; B. Live specimen of Caridina zhaoi sp. nov..

Caridina zhaoi sp. nov.

 Xuankong Jiang, Jiajun Zhou and Huiming Chen. 2026. Caridina zhaoi sp. nov., A New stygobiont atyid Shrimp (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) from a limestone cave in Guizhou Province, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(2): 601-609. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.182296 [06 Apr 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso • After forty-eight years: An enigmatic New wormlion fly (Diptera: Vermileonidae) from Xizang, China

 

 Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso   

Shan & Wang, 2026 

 仓央嘉措印穴虻  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1276.184675 

 Abstract

The brachyceran family Vermileonidae (wormlion flies) is characterised by larvae that construct pitfall traps for predation. The Oriental genus Vermitigris Wheeler, 1930 previously included four described species distributed in China, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia. In 1978, unidentified larvae of Vermitigris were collected by Fa-Sheng Li from Yadong, Xizang, China, but the adult stage remained unknown. During a 2025 expedition, adult specimens were obtained, enabling their association with the larvae and recognition as a new species. Herein, Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso sp. nov. is described, with accounts of its immature stages and notes on its biology. This discovery increases the number of Vermitigris species recorded from China from one to two, the total number of species in the genus from four to five, and all the extant species in the family from 66 to 67. The biogeographical implications for Vermitigris are also discussed.

Key words: Dinggyê, new species, taxonomy, western China, Yadong

Morphological characters of Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso sp. nov. (I).
 A. Holotype, male, dorsal view; B. Paratype, male, dorsal view; C. Terminal portion of right hind leg of holotype, male, dorsal view; D. Paratype, female, dorsal view; E. Right halter of paratype, male, dorsal view; F. Paratype, male, left-lateral view. Scale bars: 2.0 mm (A, B, D, F); 0.2 mm (C, E).

Habitats and habitus of  Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso sp. nov. 
A. A pavilion shades a larval colony; B. Larval colony in fine-grained soil under a giant rock; C. Larva inhabiting wood debris produced by wood-boring insects under a pavilion; D. Larva inhabiting fine-grained river sands accumulated under a giant rock next to a river; E, F. Male resting on a plant leaf.

Order Diptera Linnaeus, 1758

Suborder Brachycera Zetterstedt, 1842

Family Vermileonidae Williston, 1886

Genus Vermitigris Wheeler, 1930

Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso Shan & Wang, sp. nov.

Chinese vernacular name. 仓央嘉措印穴虻.

Differential diagnosis.

In the larvae of this species, the marginal spines in the proleg are approximately as long as or only slightly shorter than the middle ones (Fig. 6B–D). However, in V. fairchildi, whose adults are unknown, the marginal spines are approximately half as long as the middle ones (Wheeler 1930: fig. 25j).

....

Etymology. The species is dedicated to Tsangyang Gyatso (1683–1706), the 6th Dalai Lama, a Tibetan poet-monk from Xizang, renowned for his romantic verse and unconventional life. Noun in apposition.

Li-Xia Shan and Ji-Shen Wang. 2026. After forty-eight years: An enigmatic New wormlion fly from Xizang, China (Diptera, Vermileonidae). ZooKeys. 1276: 249-262. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1276.184675 [07 Apr 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Illicium nymphiiflorum (Schisandraceae) • A New cauliflorous Species from Yunnan, China

 

Illicium nymphiiflorum Q. Lin & Y.M. Shui,  

in Chen, Lin, Li, Zhang et Shui, 2026. Illicium 

DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0107

 

 Abstract  

Illicium nymphiiflorum Q. Lin & Y.M. Shui sp. nova (Schisandraceae) is described from China. It especially resembles I. viridiflorum from South Vietnam in being cauliflorous and in having similar greenish-white flowers and single-seriate stamens. It differs, e.g., in leaf shape (obovate vs. elliptic), apex of the innermost petals (acute vs. obtuse), arrangement of stamens (vertical vs. horizontal) and number of follicles (12–14 vs. 4–8). It also resembles I. stapfii, from which it differs in several floral characters. According to IUCN categories and criteria, I. nymphiiflorum is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).

General morphology of Illicium nymphiiflorum. 
 A: Trunk and flowers. — B: Close-up of the flowers. — C: Open flower and its visitor, a species of hoverfly. — D: Flowers on a young shoot. — E: Pseudowhorled or subopposite leaves. — F and G: Adaxial leaf surface. — H and I: Abaxial leaf surface.

Prepared by Chong Yang, from the holotype. All except G and I photographed in Maguan County, Yunnan, China, on 17 October 2022.

Reproductive morphology of Illicium nymphiiflorum.
 A: Flowers on the trunk. — B: Buds and lateral view of the flowers. — C: Back view of a flower. — D: Lateral view of a flower. — E: Front view of a flower. — F: Outermost petals. — G: Intermediate and innermost petals. — H: Stamens. — I: Flower and dry fruit.

Prepared by Chong Yang, from the holotype. A–E photographed in Maguan County, Yunnan, China, on 17 October 2022.

Illicium nymphiiflorum Q. Lin & Y.M. Shui, sp. nova 

 

Etymology. The specific epithet nymphiiflorum refers to the flowers, which resemble those of Nymphaea.

Wen-Hong Chen, Qi Lin, Guo-Yun Li, Jin-Guo Zhang and Yu-Min Shui. 2026. Illicium nymphiiflorum (Schisandraceae), a New Cauliflorous Species from Yunnan, China. Annales Botanici Fennici. 62(1); 43-47. DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0107 (13 March 2026)

[Botany • 2026] Impatiens pfutserensis (Balsaminaceae) • A New Species from Nagaland, India

Impatiens pfutserensis  S.Singh, B.Singh & M.Bhuyan,

in S.Singh, B.Singh, Bhuyan et Phukan, 2026. 

 taiwania.NTU.edu.tw/abstract/2167

Abstract 

A new species of Balsam, Impatiens pfutserensis S.Singh, B.Singh & M.Bhuyan, belonging to Impatiens sect. Racemosae Hook.f. & Thomson, is described herein from the Phek District of Nagaland, India. The species is distinguished by a unique combination of diagnostic characters: unwinged stems lacking swollen nodes, forward-directed marginal leaf teeth, an eight-flowered inflorescence, and pink flowers with white patches. It is further characterized by a long spur and a ridged capsule. While morphologically similar to I. stenantha Hook.f. and I. prainii Hook.f., I. pfutserensis differs from both in several key traits. Inhabiting subtropical montane forest ecosystems, the species is presented here with detailed data on its morphology, distribution, phenology, and conservation status, alongside photographic documentation to facilitate accurate identification.

Keyword: Balsaminaceae, biodiversity hotspot, eastern Himalaya, Impatiens pfutserensis, Indo-Burma, Nagaland, new taxon

Impatiens pfutserensis:
 A. natural habit, B. single leaf, C. different parts of a complete flower, D. inflorescence E. close look of complete flower, F. capsule.

Impatiens pfutserensis S.Singh, B.Singh & M.Bhuyan, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: The new species is morphologically similar to Impatiens stenantha Hook.f. (Table 1), but can be distinguished with the later by its plant habit (succulent vs. non-succulent), plant height (15–30 cm tall vs. 40–90 cm tall, node (not swollen vs. swollen), stem (not winged vs. winged), lateral veins (4–6 pairs vs. 7–11 pairs), inflorescence (8- flowered vs. 3–4 flowered); flower colour (pink with white patches vs. yellow with dark red spots), longer spur (2.5–2.8 cm vs. 1.7–2.2 cm), capsule (clavate to subfusiform vs. linear). The new species is also resembling I. prainii Hook.f., and varies by its stem (unbranched, hollow, translucentgreen to reddish with adventitious roots vs. branched, solid), leaves (without stipule vs. distinct glandular stipule), inflorescence (8-flowered vs. 2 or 3-flowered), lower sepal (with long curved spur vs. short straight spur), and capsule (clavate vs. linear).

Sumit Singh, Bikarma Singh, Mantu Bhuyan and Tridip Phukan. 2026. A New Species of Impatiens from Nagaland, India. Taiwania. 71(2); 263-267. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.263 [25 March 2026] 

 taiwania.NTU.edu.tw/abstract/2167

[Entomology • 2026] Euthalia zubeengargi • A New Species of Euthalia Hübner, 1819 subgenus Limbusa Moore, [1897] (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Limenitidinae) from Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India

 

Euthalia (Limbusa) zubeengargi 

Sadasivan & Upadhaya, 

in Upadhaya et Sadasivan, 2026. 

  http://www.entomon.in

 Researchgate.net/publication/403195003

 

ABSTRACT 

A new species of Euthalia Hübner, 1819 (subgenus Limbusa Moore, [1897]) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Limenitidinae, Adoliadini) is described from Arunachal Pradesh, northeastern India. This species, Euthalia (Limbusa) zubeengargi, Sadasivan & Upadhaya sp. nov., is assigned to the Patala group of Limbusa based on its wing pattern, venation, and male genital morphology. A detailed description of the male and its genitalia is presented, along with a revised key to the males of Subtype A2 of the Patala group sensu Yokochi (2011). 

KEY WORDS: New taxon, butterfly, duke, Patala group, morphology, Basar, Eastern Himalayas, taxonomic key

Euthalia (Limbusa) zubeengargi, Sadasivan & Upadhaya sp. nov.

 Roshan Upadhaya and Kalesh Sadasivan. 2026. A New Species of Euthalia Hübner, 1819 subgenus Limbusa Moore, [1897] (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Limenitidinae, Adoliadini) from Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India. ENTOMON. 51(1): 1-10. 

Researchgate.net/publication/403195003_A_new_species_of_Euthalia_from_ArunachalPradesh_NE_India

  http://www.entomon.in/index.php/Entomon/forthcoming

[Cnidaria • 2026] Rhytisma acoronatum, R. calyaceum, R. karibu, ... • Phylogenomics-guided Revision of the Genus Rhytisma Alderslade, 2000 (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea: Lemnaliidae), with Descriptions of Six New Sspecies

 

(a, b) Rhytisma karibu sp. nov., 

(c, d) R. acoronatum sp. nov. 

(e, f) R. oblongum sp. nov.

 (c) R. inaequale sp. nov., with expanded polyps 

(d) R. calyaceum sp. nov., with partially expanded polyps 

(e) R. sperkolae sp. nov., polyps partly expanded

Samimi-Namin, Benayahu, Durkin, Ekins, Quattrini & McFadden, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1071/IS25068 

Photographs by Y. Benayahu, and M. Ekins.

 

The genus Rhytisma Alderslade, 2000 (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea: Lemnaliidae), formerly comprising four nominal species (R. fulvum, R. fuscum, R. monticulum and R. rubiginosum), is revised using an integrative approach. We combine morphological and phylogenomic data for newly collected and historical specimens. A neotype is designated for R. fulvum and a lectotype for R. fuscum to stabilise the application of these names. Six new species are described from the Indo-Pacific: R. acoronatum sp. nov., R. calyaceum sp. nov., R. oblongum sp. nov., R. inaequale sp. nov., R. karibu sp. nov. and R. sperkolae sp. nov. Species delimitation is supported by discrete combinations of morphological characters – particularly those of the tentacle and polyp sclerites – as well as multi-locus DNA barcoding and phylogenomic analyses of conserved elements (UCE and exon loci). Our findings highlight the diagnostic value of tentacle sclerites and reveal extensive species-level diversity that was previously obscured by insufficient morphological examination. The revised genus currently comprises 10 valid species, many of which display restricted geographic distributions, reflecting patterns of regional endemism in Indo-Pacific octocoral assemblages. These results underscore the importance of integrative taxonomy in uncovering hidden biodiversity.

 

Keywords: biogeography, DNA barcoding, endemism, Indo-Pacific, integrative taxonomy, neotype, soft corals, species delimitation, taxonomic revision, ultraconserved elements

Underwater images of Rhytisma species in their respective type localities.
(a, b) Rhytisma fulvum yellow colour and grey colour morphs, polyps partly expanded
(c) R. inaequale sp. nov., with expanded polyps (d) R. calyaceum sp. nov., with partially expanded polyps
(e) R. sperkolae sp. nov., mat morphology reflects underlying irregular reef substrate, polyps partly expanded. (f) R. monticulum with expanded polyps.

Photographs by (a–c, e) Y. Benayahu, (d, f) M. Ekins.

Underwater images of Rhytisma species in their respective type localities.
(a, b) Rhytisma karibu sp. nov., growing on seagrass blades and reef substrate (c, d) R. acoronatum sp. nov. (e, f) R. oblongum sp. nov. 

Photographs by (a, b, e, f) Y. Benayahu, and (c, d) M. Ekins.

Rhytisma acoronatum sp. nov., R. calyaceum sp. nov., 

R. oblongum sp. nov., R. inaequale sp. nov., 

R. karibu sp. nov. and R. sperkolae sp. nov. 

Kaveh Samimi-Namin, Yehuda Benayahu, Kathleen M. Durkin, Merrick Ekins, Andrea M. Quattrini and Catherine S. McFadden. 2026. Phylogenomics-guided Revision of the Genus Rhytisma Alderslade, 2000 (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea: Lemnaliidae), with Descriptions of Six New Sspecies. Invertebr Syst. 40(3); IS25068. DOI: doi.org/10.1071/IS25068   [30 March 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Hellwigia opalina (Zingiberaceae: Alpinieae) • A New Species of the enigmatic Jade Gingers of Sulawesi, Indonesia

 

 Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen,  

in Poulsen, Senjaya, Ardiyani et Newman, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.171221 

Abstract

The Indonesian Island of Sulawesi is home to a number of members of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, with unusual turquoise flowers not found anywhere else. A recent paper reinstating Hellwigia, using molecular evidence, placed these “jade gingers” in this genus. During a joint expedition between the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Bogor Botanical Gardens 26 years ago, an interesting jade ginger was collected at Mt. Sojol. This is similar to two other named species from Sulawesi, H. coeruleoviridis and H. glacicaerulea, in having unusual dimorphic, turquoise-bluish green flowers but differs from both in the much shorter ligule without a demarcation line and is described here as Hellwigia opalina. In preparation for this, all available material of jade gingers from Sulawesi was examined, and all except the collections from Mt. Sojol had a long ligule with a demarcation line similar to H. coeruleoviridis and H. glacicaerulea. It is, however, questionable whether the identification by R.M. Smith of several collections from Lore Lindu National Park, Central Sulawesi, matches the type of H. coeruleoviridis, which was lost in Berlin during the Second World War. Until this species has been recollected at its type locality, here identified as Mt. Tentolomatinan, 300 km away, the identification cannot be easily ascertained. Rhizomes from Mt. Sojol were cultivated in botanic gardens, and plants cultivated at the Royal Botanic Garden flowered several times, which enabled detailed studies and dissection of both flower morphs. This is usually impossible during fieldwork and emphasizes the importance of cultivation of gingers—not just for ex situ conservation but also for research purposes. Detailed photographs taken of the cultivated plants were used to obtain a better morphological understanding and to illustrate Hellwigia opalina in the present paper.

Key words: Alpinia, ex situ conservation, Indonesia, monoecism, Wallacea

 Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen, sp. nov.
A. Leafy shoots, inflorescence with functionally female flowers open; B. Leafy shoots, inflorescence with functionally male flowers open; C. Bases of leafy shoots; D. Part of pseudostem with one leaf blade; E. Close-up of ligule, petiole, and leaf base; F. Ligule, viewed from the inside; G. Close-up of midrib beneath.

All photographs of the type (A.D. Poulsen 3255) by A.D. Poulsen.  

 Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen, sp. nov.
 Functionally female flowers: A. Inflorescence with first flowers; B. Flower; C. Bracteole; D. Calyx; E. Corolla lobes; F. Flower, bracteole removed; G. Inner part of cincinnus with functionally male flowers in bud; H. Labellum, ventral and dorsal view; J. Stamen, lateral and ventral view (staminodes); K. Gynoecium, ventral and lateral view. Functionally male flowers: L. Inflorescence; M. Flower; N. Calyx; O. Corolla lobes; P. Flower, bracteole removed; Q. Labellum, ventral and dorsal view; R. Floral tube and stamen, lateral view; S. Floral tube and staminodes; T. Floral tube and epigynous gland; U. Stamen, ventral view.

All photographs of the type (A.D. Poulsen 3255) by A.D. Poulsen.

Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Similar to Hellwigia glacicaerulea (R.M.Sm.) Senjaya & A.D.Poulsen in having inflorescences of secund cincinni bearing turquoise-blue, dimorphic flowers but differing in its shorter ligule (2–3.5 mm, coriaceous vs. 20–30 mm, marcescent), shorter petiole (7–12 mm vs. 20–30 mm), leaf blades being densely tomentose beneath (vs. shortly tomentose), and tomentose inflorescence rhachis (vs. shortly tomentose).

Etymology. The epithet means ‘opal-colored’ from Greek, opallios, an opal.

Axel Dalberg Poulsen, Seni Kurnia Senjaya, Marlina Ardiyani and Mark Fleming Newman. 2026. Hellwigia opalina (Zingiberaceae) – A New Species of the enigmatic Jade Gingers of Sulawesi. PhytoKeys. 272: 169-180. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.171221 [03 Apr 2026]

 

[Herpetology • 2025] Phyllopezus sapiranga • Uncovering Neotropical Rock Geckos’ Diversity: Multiple Data Sources on an Integrated Taxonomic Approach reveal A New Species of Phyllopezus Peters, 1878 (Squamata: Phyllodactylidae) from northeastern Brazilian Atlantic Forest

 

 Phyllopezus sapiranga

Dubeux, Vieira Dubeux, Neves, Werneck, Rodrigues, Mott & Nunes, 2025

 

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.jcz.2025.09.011  

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Abstract

Using an integrated taxonomic approach based on a robust data set including external morphology, cranial anatomy, hemipenial morphology, scale microstructure, and molecular data, we describe a new species of gecko of the genus Phyllopezus from mountains in the northeastern Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The species is currently known to occur in Serra da Jiboia, municipality of Elísio Medrado, Bahia state, and Serra de Itabaiana, municipality of Areia Branca, Sergipe state. The new species is genetically related and more morphologically similar to Phyllopezus diamantino and Phyllopezus selmae, sharing all diagnostic characteristics for both these species, but distinguished from their congeners by meristic and morphometric characters. The new species is the first Phyllodactylidae to have its hemipenial morphology described and together with the cranial anatomy and the description of the microstructures of the dorsal scales provided here, it encourages the use of new approaches for the description of the cryptic species present in this species complex.

 

Keywords: Cryptic diversity, Integrative taxonomy, Morphological data, Molecular phylogeny, Hemipenial morphology, Cranial anatomy, Scale microstructure

  Coloration in life of Phyllopezus sapiranga sp. nov.
(A–E) Holotype [male, CHUFPE-R 1962],
(F) Male paratype [CHUFPE-R 1960]; (G) Juvenile paratype [CHUFPE-R 1972].

Phyllopezus sapiranga sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet is a homage to Marco Antônio de Freitas (also known as Marco "Sapiranga"), a herpetologist whose tireless efforts in research, management and fiscalization of several protected areas in the state of Bahia, has helped and helps contribute to the knowledge and conservation of Brazilian herpetofauna.

 

Marcos J.M. Dubeux, Gisele M.N. Vieira Dubeux, Jessika M.M. Neves, Fernanda P. Werneck, Miguel T. Rodrigues, Tamí Mott and Pedro M.S. Nunes. 2025. Uncovering Neotropical Rock Geckos’ Diversity: Multiple Data Sources on an Integrated Taxonomic Approach reveal A New Species of Phyllopezus Peters, 1878 (Squamata: Phyllodactylidae) from northeastern Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Zoologischer Anzeiger. 319; 173-195. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.jcz.2025.09.011 [November 2025] 

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[Herpetology • 2026] Gegeneophis bavali • A New Species of Gegeneophis Peters, 1879 (Gymnophiona: Grandisoniidae) from the Western Ghats of northern Kerala, India

 

Gegeneophis bavali 

Kotharambath, Vengot & Gower, 2026 

 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5782.3.9

 

Abstract

A new species of grandisoniid caecilian amphibian, Gegeneophis bavali sp. nov., is described based on two specimens from northern Kerala state in the southern part of the Western Ghats region of peninsular India. This species is distinguished from all other Gegeneophis by the combination of lacking an unsegmented terminal shield, having secondary annular grooves, and having more than 132 primary annuli. A new key to the identification of the species of the genus is presented.

Amphibia, caecilians, Herpetology, identification key, morphology, taxonomy

 

Gegeneophis bavali sp. nov.

Ramachandran KOTHARAMBATH, Ranjith VENGOT and David J. GOWER. 2026. A New Species of Gegeneophis Peters, 1879 (Amphibia: Gymnophiona: Grandisoniidae) from the Western Ghats of northern Kerala, India. Zootaxa. 5782(3); 571-580.  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5782.3.9 [2026-03-25]

 

[Botany • 2026] Phyllocephalum keralense (Asteraceae) • A New Species from southern Western Ghats of Kerala, India

Phyllocephalum keralense Arya Sindhu, Suresh, Sojan, Alen & V S A Kumar, 

in Sindhu, Jose, Alen, Anilkumar et Suresh, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.04812 

Abstract

A new species of Phyllocephalum is described and illustrated from Palakkad district of Kerala, India. The new species shows similarity to P. rangacharii but differs with respect to key floral traits, viz. ovoid shape of the capitula, involucral bracts in 3 series, inflated receptacle and ovoid 6-ribbed ovary with 5–6 densely barbellate pappus setae. Colour photographs, SEM images of pollen and florets along with a distribution map are provided.

Keywords: Achene, florets, involucre bracts, Nelliyampathy, Ponmudi

Phyllocephalum keralense sp. nov. 
 (A) Habit, (B) and (C) flower, (D) outer phyllaria, (E) middle phyllaria, (F) inner phyllaria, (G) floret, (H) floret open, (I), (J) & (K) corolla lobes, (L) base of ovary with pappus, (M) gynoecium, (N) achene.

Phyllocephalum keralense Arya Sindhu, Suresh, Sojan, Alen & V S A Kumar sp. nov. 

Arya Sindhu, Sojan Jose, Alex Philip Alen, Venugopalan Nair Saradamma Anilkumar and Veerankutty Suresh. 2026. Phyllocephalum keralense (Asteraceae) A New Species from southern Western Ghats of Kerala, India. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.04812  [03 April 2026]