[Paleontology • 2026] New Fossil unveils the Dentary Anatomy of the rare lepidosauromorph Cargninia enigmatica from the Upper Triassic of Southern Brazil

 Cargninia enigmatica Bonaparte, Schultz, Soares & Martinelli, 2010, 

in Damke, Dalle-Laste,  Kerber, Roberto-da-Silva et Müller, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ar.70268

Artwork by Márcio L. Castro.

Abstract

Nowadays, Lepidosauria is a diverse group represented by squamates and the rhynchocephalian tuatara. However, their origins date back to the end of the Permian Period, when the stem lineages Lepidosauromorpha and Archosauromorpha diverged. Within the lepidosauromorph stem lineage, a few species have been described with unstable phylogenetic placements. In Brazilian strata, the only representative of this lineage is the rare species Cargninia enigmatica. The taxon was found in Norian beds (upper portion of the Candelária Sequence) and is known from the posterior end of a dentary and a tentatively referred partial maxilla. Here, we describe a new specimen (CAPPA/UFSM 0519) referred to Cargninia enigmatica, consisting of a partial dentary recovered from the type locality. The specimen provides new anatomical information on the anterior portion of the dentary. In addition, for the first time, the phylogenetic placement of Cargninia enigmatica was investigated in a computational framework, and the results are congruent with previous suggestions that it represents a non-lepidosaur lepidosauromorph. Finally, the new specimen reveals details of the anatomy of the mandibular ramus of the trigeminal nerve, demonstrating that it shares a similar condition with its extant relatives.

Keywords: Caturrita Formation, Gondwana, Lepidosauromorpha, Norian, Pangea

Left dentary of CAPPA/UFSM 0519 in lateral view. (a) Photograph. (b) Interpretative drawing. (c) Detail of the rostralmost preserved teeth. (d) Additional details of the second and third preserved teeth. fo, foramina.

SYSTEMATIC PALEONTOLOGY

DIAPSIDA Osborn, 1903

SAURIA Macartney, 1802

LEPIDOSAUROMORPHA Gauthier, 1984 (sensu Gauthier et al., 1988)

Cargninia enigmatica Bonaparte et al., 2010

 Holotype: UFRGS-PV-1027-T, posterior end of a left dentary with five preserved teeth.

 Type locality, age, and horizon: Linha São Luiz site (29°33′45″S, 53°26′48″W), municipality of Faxinal do Soturno, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Candelária Sequence of the Santa Maria Supersequence (Horn et al., 2014; Zerfass et al., 2003). These layers are early Norian in age (225.42 ± 0.37) (Langer et al., 2018).

New referred material: CAPPA/UFSM 0519, partial left dentary with several teeth. The specimen was collected from the type locality.

  Amended diagnosis: In addition to the unique traits of Cargninia enigmatica listed by Bonaparte et al. (2010) and Romo de Vivar et al. (2020), we recognize the following additional features based on the study of CAPPA/UFSM 0519 that distinguish the species from closely related taxa: the symphyseal region is medially recurved and formed by the Meckelian groove, and the presence of foramina restricted to the anterior region of the dentary.

A landscape from the Late Triassic of southern Brazil showing Cargninia enigmatica being observed by the sauropodomorph dinosaur Macrocollum itaquii. Artwork by Márcio L. Castro.

Lísie Vitória Soares Damke, Vitória Zanchett Dalle-Laste, Leonardo Kerber, Lúcio Roberto-da-Silva and Rodrigo Temp Müller. 2026. New Fossil unveils the Dentary Anatomy of the rare lepidosauromorph Cargninia enigmatica from the Upper Triassic of Southern Brazil. The Anatomical Record. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ar.70268  [04 July 2026]

[Paleontology • 2024] Osteology, Phylogenetic Affinities, and Palaeobiogeographic Significance of the bizarre ornithischian Dinosaur Ajkaceratops kozmai from the Late Cretaceous European Archipelago

 

Ajkaceratops kozmai  Ősi, Butler & Weishampel, 2010

in Czepiński & Madzia, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae048 

 facebook.com/LukaszCzepinski

artistic restoration by Edyta Felcyn-Kowalska

Abstract

At the climax of their evolutionary history in the latest Cretaceous, ceratopsian dinosaurs were among the most dominant components of North American and Asian land ecosystems. In other continental landmasses, however, ceratopsians were extraordinarily rare and the affinities of their proposed representatives often turned out to be inconclusive. Arguably the most significant evidence of Ceratopsia from outside North America and Asia is represented by Ajkaceratops kozmai from the Santonian (Upper Cretaceous) of Hungary. We provide a detailed osteological description of Ajkaceratops and highlight its bizarre anatomy. Ajkaceratops has been ‘traditionally’ interpreted to represent a Bagaceratops-like coronosaur, and its occurrence on the European islands was hypothesized to probably result from an early Late Cretaceous dispersal event from Asia. However, while the snout of Ajkaceratops may resemble that of some ceratopsians, closer inspection of the preserved elements indicates that these similarities are largely superficial. While it cannot be ruled out that Ajkaceratops represents a highly peculiar member of the clade, its placement is far from certain. Still, the discovery of Ajkaceratops exemplifies the importance and uniqueness of European dinosaur faunas.

Ceratopsia, Late Cretaceous, Ornithischia, osteology, palaeobiogeography, phylogeny

Łukasz Czepiński and Daniel Madzia. 2024. Osteology, Phylogenetic Affinities, and Palaeobiogeographic Significance of the bizarre ornithischian Dinosaur Ajkaceratops kozmai from the Late Cretaceous European Archipelago. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. zlae048. DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae048

  facebook.com/LukaszCzepinski/posts/10234487215985879

[Botany • 2023] The Reinstatement of Rafflesia banaoana (Rafflesiaceae), and Implications for Assessing Species Diversity and Conservation Requirements of the World's Largest Flowers

Rafflesia banaoana Malabrigo (A.B.Tobias, Thorogood & Malabrigo),  

in Tobias, Thorogood & Malabrigo, 2023.

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.612.2.5  

 twitter.com/Adriane_Tobias 

  twitter.com/OBGHA

Abstract

The Southeast Asian genus Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) is famous for possessing the world's largest flowers. All species are rare or threatened, so understanding taxonomic diversity in the genus is crucial for informing effective conservation practice. Here we examine R. banaoana, a poorly known taxon from the remote montane rainforests of the Kalinga Province in the Philippines. This species has been treated as conspecific with R. leonardi, and overlooked in systematic studies. Using stable yet hitherto neglected features such as the stigmatic fascia surface, disk shape, process structure, annulus interior and exterior distinction, and ovary shape, we demonstrate that R. banaoana is morphologically as well as ecologically distinct from R. leonardi, and requires reinstatement at the specific rank. We present our findings in the broader context of complexity in the genus Rafflesia in the Philippines, now considered the center of diversity, with 15 species described to date. We highlight the taxonomically confused R. banaoana as a case for careful observation of previously unexamined morphological characters, as well as ecology, to avoid overlooking cryptic taxa or species complexes and to inform representative sampling in systematic treatments. Such an approach will be essential for enhancing our understanding of the diversity of this enigmatic yet poorly understood genus at a time of unprecedented anthropogenic change and species extinction. In light of our findings, we recommend a holistic approach to the conservation of Rafflesia in the Philippines.

Keywords: biodiversity conservation, endemic, IUCN Red List, parasitic plants, Rafflesia leonardi, Eudicots

   

Adriane B. Tobias, Chris J. Thorogood and Pastor L. Malabrigo Jr. 2023. The Reinstatement of Rafflesia banaoana (Rafflesiaceae), and Implications for Assessing Species Diversity and Conservation Requirements of the World's Largest Flowers.  Phytotaxa. 612(2); 201-216. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.612.2.5

  twitter.com/OBGHA/status/1698982652496273838

  twitter.com/Adriane_Tobias/status/1699068440932462788

  twitter.com/ThorogoodChris1/status/1698984809945608674

P.L. Malabrigo, Jr. 2010. Rafflesia banaoana (Rafflesiaceae): another new species from Luzon, Philippines. Asia Life Sciences-The Asian International Journal of Life Sciences. Suppl. 4: 139–146.

https://parasiticplants.siu.edu/RaffPhil/RaffPhilLit/Malabrigo2010RaffBanaoana.pdf

Etymology. The species is named after the very hospitable and environment-friendly people in Kalinga, the Banao Tribe, whose traditional forest management practice is exemplary. The people of Banao have kept a good forest status of Kalinga for having the least reduction of old-growth forests among the provinces of Cordillera Administrative Region. The most recent forest survey showed that old-growth forests cover more than 85% of the total BBNP area. Further, the locality where the population was discovered is part of the Banao watershed inside the Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park (BBNP). 

[Paleontology • 2018] Yizhousaurus sunae • A New Sauropodiform Dinosaur with A ‘Sauropodan’ Skull from the Lower Jurassic Lufeng Formation of Yunnan Province, China

Yizhousaurus sunae 

Zhang, You, Wang & Chatterjee, 2018

 DOI:  10.1038/s41598-018-31874-9 

Abstract

The Early Jurassic Lufeng Formation of Yunnan Province in southwestern China is one of the best fossil localities in the world for understanding the early radiation of sauropodomorph dinosaurs. It has yielded a rich assemblage of complete and three-dimensionally preserved skeletons of herbivorous dinosaurs that provide crucial morphological information for systematic and evolutionary studies. Here we describe a new taxon, Yizhousaurus sunae gen. et sp. nov., represented by a nearly complete skeleton with an exquisitely preserved skull and mandible. Yizhousaurus is distinguished from other non-sauropodan sauropodomorphs by a unique combination of plesiomorphic and apomorphic features, which increases our understanding of the anatomical variation on the relatively conservative ‘prosauropod’ cranial plan. Phylogenetic analysis resolves Yizhousaurus as a sauropodiform, showcasing a mosaic character suite combining plesiomorphic states in the postcranial skeleton with some more ‘sauropodan’-like features in the skull. Furthermore, Yizhousaurus is placed closer to the base of Sauropoda than other non-sauropodan sauropodomorphs currently known from the Lufeng Formation, adding another taxon to enrich the Lower Jurassic Lufeng dinosaur fauna.

Figure 2 Status of preservation of Yizhousaurus sunae gen. et sp. nov.
 (A) The reconstruction in sketch of Yizhousaurus in left lateral view (drawn by Xiao-Cong Guo), regions in red rim represent absent elements; (B), the original burial map of Yizhousaurus 

(drawn by Qian-Nan Zhang).

Systematic Paleontology

Dinosauria Owen, 1842

Saurischia Seeley, 1887

Sauropodomorpha von Huene, 1932

Massopoda Yates, 2007

Sauropodiformes Sereno, 2007 

Yizhousaurus sunae gen. et sp. nov.

Holotype: LFGT (Bureau of Land and Resources of Lufeng County, Yunnan, China) -ZLJ0033. An undistorted skeleton about 7 meters long, including a well-preserved skull and mandible, a mostly complete vertebral series (9 cervicals, 14 dorsals, 3 sacrals and 5 anterior caudals), pectoral and pelvic girdles, forelimbs (lacking both carpi) and both femora (Fig. 2A).

Type locality and horizon: The specimen was collected near Duwafang Village, Chuanjie Town, Lufeng County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China (Fig. 1); the skeleton was excavated in the uppermost layer of the Zhangjiaao Member of the Lower Jurassic Lufeng Formation.

Etymology: The generic name Yizhou refers to the Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province. The specific name is in honor of Professor Ai-Ling Sun, for her great contribution to Chinese vertebrate fossils, including those from Lufeng.

Differential Diagnosis: A medium-sized sauropodiform distinguished from other non-sauropodan sauropodomorphs with respect to the following unique combination of character states (autapomorphies marked with *): lateral plates appressed to the labial sides of the premaxillary and maxillary teeth but not the dentary teeth*; anteroposterior expansion at the dorsal end of the maxillary ascending ramus; antorbital fenestra anteroposteriorly narrow and pipe-shaped in outline*; lacrimal shaft vertical with respect to the maxillary ramus*; transverse width of the ventral process of the postorbital greater than its anteroposterior width at midshaft; anterior tip of the dentary anterodosally curved over the alveolar margin*; tiny external mandibular fenestra (about 5% of the mandibular length)*; broad axial intercentrum wider than its centrum; deep depressions on the lateral surfaces of centra of dorsal vertebrae 3–6; hyposphenes of the anterior dorsals equal to their neural canals in height; and subelliptical cross-section of the midshaft of the femur.

.....

Comment: Yizhousaurus sunae was briefly reported as a basal sauropod at the Geological Society of America Conference in 2010, but has never received formal study. In addition, its fourth and fifth caudal vertebrae are fused together, which is considered pathological in nature.

Qian-Nan Zhang, Hai-Lu You, Tao Wang and Sankar Chatterjee. 2018. A New Sauropodiform Dinosaur with A ‘Sauropodan’ Skull from the Lower Jurassic Lufeng Formation of Yunnan Province, China. Scientific Reports.  8,  13464.  DOI:  10.1038/s41598-018-31874-9

 Chatterjee, Sankar; Wang, T.; Pan, S.G.; Dong, Z.; Wu, X.C.; Upchurch, P. 2010. A Complete Skeleton of A Basal Sauropod Dinosaur from the early Jurassic of China and the Origin of Sauropoda. Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. 42 (5): 26.

 gsa.confex.com/gsa/2010AM/finalprogram/abstract_175675.htm

Found: First complete remains of early sauropod dinosaur  phys.org/news/2010-10-early-sauropod-dinosaur.html via @physorg_com

[Herpetology • 2018] Cyrtodactylus leegrismeri Chan & Norhayati, 2010 (Sauria: Gekkonidae): A First Country Record for Thailand

Cyrtodactylus leegrismeri  Chan & Norhayati, 2010

in Nurngsomsri, Chuaynkern, Duengkae, et al., 2018. 
 rdo.psu.ac.th/sjstweb 

Abstract

A new country record of the Bent-toed Gecko, Cyrtodactylus leegrismeri Chan and Norhayati, 2010 for Thailand was reported based on three specimens collected from Kra Island, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province (southern Thailand). Previously, the species’ known distribution was from islands in the Gulf of Thailand ranging from Malaysia to Vietnam. The present work reports an additional locality which lies between the northern-most and southern-most ranges of its distribution and is approximately 550 kilometers away from the type locality (Tenggol Island Resort, Pulau Tenggol, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia).

Keywords: Cyrtodactylus condorensis species complex, new record, Kra Island, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Gulf of Thailand.

Figure 2 Living specimens of Cyrtodactylus leegrismeri from Pulau Tenggol of Malaysia (A, LSUDPC 5136; Photograph: L.L. Grismer) compared with specimens from Kra Island of Thailand (B, THNHM 26272, C, THNHM 26270, D, THNHM 26271; Photographs: Y. Chuaynkern). Photographs were taken ex situ.

Pechrkawin Nurngsomsri, Chantip Chuaynkern, Prateep Duengkae, Wachara Sanguansombat, L. Lee Grimser and Yodchaiy Chuaynkern. 2018. Cyrtodactylus leegrismeri Chan and Norhayati, 2010 (Sauria: Gekkonidae): A First Country Record for Thailand. Songklanakarin Journal of Science and Technology. rdo.psu.ac.th/sjstweb/Ar-Press/2018Aug/49.pdf

ตุ๊กกายเกาะกระ, ตุ๊กแกป่าเกาะกระ

    

[Arachnida • 2018] The Genus Vietbocap (Scorpiones: Pseudochactidae) in the Thien Duong Cave, Vietnam: A Possible Case of Subterranean Speciation in Scorpions

Vietbocap quinquemilia

 Lourenço, Pham, Tran & Tran, 2018

DOI:  10.1016/j.crvi.2018.03.002 

Abstract

Two new species of scorpion belonging to the family Pseudochactidae and to the genus Vietbocap are described based on specimens collected in the Thien Duong cave, which belongs to the Vom cave system, in the Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. The previously described species from this cave, Vietbocap thienduongensis Lourenço & Pham, 2012 was collected in the initial section of the cave (1500 to 1800 m from the cave entrance) and proved to be a true troglobitic element. The diagnosis of this species, only known from males, is completed based on females collected at 750 m from the cave entrance. The two new species described here were collected respectively at 3000 and 5000 m from the cave entrance and are also true troglobitic elements, very similar to V. thienduongensis, but showing some clear morphological differences. This observed situation suggests a possible case of speciation within the cave system, the first one ever reported for scorpions. The population found at 5000 m from the entrance of the cave is a total new record of distance from a cave entrance for scorpions.

Keywords: Scorpion; New species; Troglobitic element; Vietnam; Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park; Thien Duong cave; Intra-cave speciation

Fig. 4. Vietbocap thienduongensis. Male in natural habitat; 800 m from the cave entrance.

Family Pseudochactidae Gromov, 1998

Subfamily Vietbocapinae Lourenço, 2012

Genus Vietbocap Lourenço & Pham, 2010

Type: Vietbocap thienduongensis Lourenço & Pham, 2012

Vietbocap aurantiacus sp. n.

Etymology. The specific name is a Latin adjective referring to the orange coloration of the new species (aurantiacus in Latin).

Fig. 9. Vietbocap quinquemilia sp. n. Male in natural habitat; 5000 m from cave entrance.

Vietbocap quinquemilia sp. n.

Etymology. The specific name is a Latin noun in apposition referring to the distance from the cave entrance, 5000 m (quinquemilia in Latin) where the new species was found.

Wilson R. Lourenço, Dinh-Sac Pham, Thi-Hang Tran and Thi-Hang Tran. 2018. The Genus Vietbocap Lourenço & Pham, 2010 in the Thien Duong Cave, Vietnam: A Possible Case of Subterranean Speciation in Scorpions (Scorpiones: Pseudochactidae). [Le genre Vietbocap Lourenço & Pham, 2010 dans la grotte Thien Duong, Vietnam : un cas possible de spéciation souterraine chez les scorpions (Scorpiones : Pseudochactidae)] Comptes Rendus Biologies. 341(4); 264-273.  DOI:  10.1016/j.crvi.2018.03.002

Résumé:  Deux nouvelles espèces de scorpion appartenant à la famille des Pseudochactidae et au genre Vietbocap sont décrites à partir d’exemplaires collectés dans la grotte Thien Duong, laquelle appartient au système des grottes Vom dans le parc national Phong Nha–Ke Bang dans la province de Quang Binh, Vietnam. La seule espèce déjà décrite de cette grotte, Vietbocap thienduongensis Lourenço & Pham, 2012, a été collectée dans la partie initiale de celle-ci (entre 1500 et 1800 mètres de l’entrée) et a été confirmée comme un véritable élément troglobie. La diagnose de cette espèce, connue uniquement à partir des mâles, est complétée à partir de femelles collectées à 750 m de l’entrée de la grotte. Les deux nouvelles espèces décrites à présent ont été collectées respectivement à 3000 et 5000 m de l’entrée de la grotte et sont également des éléments troglobies, plutôt similaires à V. thienduongensis, mais avec des différences morphologiques bien nettes. La situation observée suggère un possible cas de spéciation à l’intérieur de la grotte, le premier signalé chez les scorpions. La population trouvée à 5000 m de l’entrée de la grotte représente un record absolu de distance de l’entrée d’une grotte pour des scorpions.

Mots clés: Scorpion; Nouvelle espèce; Troglobie; Vietnam; Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park; Grotte Thien Duong

[Herpetology • 2010] Cyrtodactylus durio • A New Spiny, Prehensile-tailed Species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Peninsular Malaysia with A Preliminary Hypothesis of Relationships based on Morphology

Cyrtodactylus durio 

 Grismer, Anuar, Quah, Muin, Onn, Grismer & Ahmad. 2010

Abstract

A new species, Cyrtodactylus durio sp. nov., is described from northwestern Peninsular Malaysia on the basis of its head, body, limbs, and tail being extremely spinose as well as other unique combinations of squamation and color pattern. It is proposed that C. durio sp. nov. forms a clade with C. brevipalmatus, C. elok, C. spinosus, and C. stresemanni on the basis of having a spiny, prehensile tail and that it is the sister species of C. stresemanni based on unique caudal tuberculation. Cytrodactylus durio sp. nov. is the latest in a growing list of new species of amphibians and reptiles recently described from the Malay Peninsula, and Peninsular Malaysia in particular, that clearly underscores the need for continuing exploratory research in these regions.

FIGURE 2. Holotype ZRC 2.9606 of Cyrtodactylus durio sp. nov. 

 Cyrtodactylus durio sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet durio is in reference to the Latin generic name Durio for the durian fruits of Asia. It is derived from the Latin root dur, meaning hard or duable. Its application as the specific epithet herein is based on the similar spiny exterior of both the durian and the gecko.  

 Larry Lee Grismer, Shahrul Anuar, Evan Quah, Mohd Abdul Muin, Chan Kin Onn, Jesse L Grismer and Norhayati Ahmad. 2010. A New Spiny, Prehensile-tailed Species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Peninsular Malaysia with A Preliminary Hypothesis of Relationships based on Morphology. Zootaxa.  2625; 40-52.

ResearchGate.net/publication/234032515_A_new_spiny_prehensile-tailed_species_of_Cyrtodactylus_from_Peninsular_Malaysia

21st Century Lizards: Small, Rare and Trendy - Author Spotlight with Shai Meiri jzoblog.wordpress.com/2016/07/18/21st-century-lizards-small-rare-and-trendy-author-spotlight-with-shai-meiri 

  

[Herpetology • 2010] Cyrtodactylus dumnuii • A New Cave-dwelling Gecko (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

ตุ๊กกายดำนุ้ย, Cyrtodactylus dumnuii 

 Bauer, Kunya, Sumontha, Niyomwan, Pauwels, Chanhome & Kunya, 2010

Abstract

A new cave-dwelling species of Cyrtodactylus is described from Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand. Cyrtodactylus dumnuii sp. nov. may be distinguished from all other congeners by the possession of a series of enlarged femoral scales, disjunct precloacal and femoral pores in males (minute precloacal pores variably present in females), a relatively high number (18–22) of closely spaced, regularly arranged dorsal tubercle rows, well-defined non-denticulate ventrolateral folds, transversely enlarged subcaudal plates, and a color pattern of approximately six pairs of alternating light and dark transverse bands on the trunk. It is the nineteenth member of the genus recorded from Thailand and the eighth Thai Cyrtodactylus known to be a facultative troglophile.

Keywords: Thailand; Chiang Mai; Reptilia; Gekkonidae; Cyrtodactylus dumnuii; new species; taxonomy; cave-dwelling

Aaron M. Bauer, Kirati Kunya, Montri Sumontha, Piyawan Niyomwan, Olivier S. G. Pauwels, Lawan Chanhome and Tunyakorn Kunya. 2010.

 Cyrtodactylus dumnuii (Squamata: Gekkonidae), A New Cave-dwelling Gecko from Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
 Zootaxa. 2570: 41–50.   mapress.com/j/zt/article/view/9399

Researchgate.net/publication/233780497_Cyrtodactylus_dumnuii_Squamata_Gekkonidae_A_New_Cave-Dwelling_Gecko_From_Chiang_Mai_Province_Thailand

ตุ๊กกายดำนุ้ย Cyrtodactylus dumnuii (Squamata : Gekkonidae)

ตุ๊กกายถ้ำสายพันธุ์ใหม่ที่พบในจังหวัดเชียงใหม่(2551)

ตุ๊กกายตัวแรกที่ได้ตั้งชื่อให้ ตั้งเป็นเกียรติ กับนายโสภณ ดำนุ้ย ขณะที่ดำรงตำแหน่งผู้อำนวยการองค์การสวนสัตว์ในพระบรมราชูปถัมภ์

ค้นพบตุ๊กกายสายพันธุ์ใหม่ในสกุล Cyrtodactylusที่จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ สามารถแยกตุ๊กกายดำนุ้ย (Cyrtodactylus dumnuii sp. nov.) จากตุ๊กแกในชั้นเดียวกันโดย การมีเกล็ดขา (femoral scales) ขนาดใหญ่ การมีรูเปิดหน้าทวารร่วม (precloacal pore) และรูเปิดขาพับใน (femoral pore) ที่ไม่ต่อกันในเพศผู้ (สามารถพบรูเปิดหน้าทวารร่วม (precloacal pore) ขนาดเล็กได้บ้างในเพศเมีย) แนวปุ่มนูนกลางหลัง (dorsal tubercle) เรียงชิดกันอย่างเป็นระเบียบจำนวนมาก (18-22) รอยพับข้างลำตัว (ventrolateral folds) ชัดเจน subcaudal platesขยายขนาดในแนวข้าง และลายแถบขวางบริเวณช่วงลำตัว (trunk) สลับสีอ่อนเข้มจำนวน 6คู่ ตุ๊กกายดำนุ้ยเป็นตุ๊กกายในสกุล Cyrtodactylus ชนิดที่ 19 ที่พบในประเทศไทย และเป็นตุ๊กกายไทยชนิดที่ 8ในกลุ่มตุ๊กกายที่อาศัยอยู่ในถ้ำ (facultative troglophile)

Key words:Thailand, Chiang Mai, Reptilia, Gekkonidae, Cyrtodactylus dumnuii, new species, taxonomy, cave-dwelling

สกุล Cyrtodactylus Gray เป็นสกุลที่มีจำนวนชนิดของตุ๊กกายมากที่สุดในวงศ์ตุ๊กแก โดยมีประมาณ 120 ชนิด ประมาณครึ่งหนึ่งของสกุลนี้ถูกค้นพบในทศวรรษที่ผ่านมา (Uetz 2010) แหล่งที่มีการค้นพบมากที่สุดอยู่ในแถบเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้ ตัวอย่างเช่น การศึกษาในประเทศเวียดนาม ได้มีการค้นพบตุ๊กกายทั้งหมด 19 ชนิด ซึ่งส่วนใหญ่เป็นสัตว์ท้องถิ่น และส่วนมากพบในเขตหินปูน หรือตามถ้ำหินปูน (e.g., Nazarov et al. 2008; Ngo 2008; Ngo & Bauer 2008; Ngo et al. 2008; Ziegler et al. 2010 และอ้างอิงอื่นๆที่มีการกล่าวถึง) ในประเทศไทย Baueret al.(2002) ค้นพบ Cyrtodactylus จำนวนทั้งสิ้น 13ชนิด อีก 5ชนิดได้มีการค้นพบในพื้นที่ต่างๆทั่วประเทศในเวลาต่อมา (Baueret al.2003; Pauwels et al. 2004; Baueret al. 2009; Sumontha et al. 2010) ซึ่งหลายชนิดมาจากถ้ำหินปูน (Sumontha et al. 2010) ในครั้งนี้จะทำการอธิบายลักษณะของตุ๊กกายชนิดใหม่ที่ค้นพบในถ้ำหินปูนในจังหวัดเชียงใหม่

กีรติ กันยาและมนตรี สุมณฑา

http://www.zoothailand.org/index.php/site/Article/617

facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1260099617338446&id=100000152602327

[Botany • 2010] Elettariopsis wandokthong • Elettariopsis Baker (Zingiberaceae) in Thailand－A New Species and A New Record

Elettariopsis wandokthong 

Picheans. &  Yupparach  

ABSTRACT
 Six taxa of Elettariopsis Baker (Zingiberaceae) were previously accounted for Thailand. In this paper, Elettariopsis wandokthong, a new species from Thailand, is described and illustrated. Also, the distribution of E. monophylla (Gagnep.) Loes. in Thailand is reported here for the first time with full description and illustration. Key to species currently enumerated for Thailand is also provided.

KEY WORDS: Zingiberaceae, Thailand, Elettariopsis wandokthong, new species, Elettariopsis monophylla, new record.

Diagnose: Elettariopsidi trilobae similis, foliis 2-4 lanceolatis ad oblongis vel ellipticis utrinque glabris, ligula 1-2 mm longa pubescenti, apice bilobo, calycis tubo corollae tubo longiore pubescenti, ovario pubescenti differt.

Distribution: This new species can only be found in the type location. However, it is widely cultivated in Thailand.

 Ecology: The new species grows under the shade of dried deciduous forest, at the altitude of 62-240 m.

 Vernacular names: Wan Dokthong (วานดอกทอง), Wan Maha Saneh (วานมหาเสนห),  彎斗松擬荳蔻 (Chinese new name).

 Ethnobotany: This new taxon is believed to process a magical power, and therefore, it is used as a good-luck charm. The Thai names imply magical seductive power. The plants are grew in pots, and put in front of shops believing that they will help attracting customers, especially when the plant is in bloom (usually as early as January to early May). The rhizomes of this taxon are also used as one of the ingredients for making “magical herbal charming oil” or “magical charming lip balm”, believing that after applying it to one’s body (oil) or lips (lip balm), it will help attracting the targeted opposite sex, particularly women.

 Chayan Picheansoonthon and Piyapong Yupparach. 2010.  Further Study on the Elettariopsis Baker (Zingiberaceae) in Thailand－A New Species and A New Record. Taiwania. 55(4); 335-341. 

http://tai2.ntu.edu.tw/taiwania/pdf/tai.2010.55.335.pdf

Orawan Theanphong, Thatree Phadungcharoen, Thaya Jenjittikul and Withawat Mingvanish. 2016. Essential Oil Composition of Elettariopsis wandokthong Picheans. & Yupparach Rhizome from Thailand.  BHST [Bulletin of Health Science and Technology] . 14(1); 30-35. 

http://www.rsu.ac.th/bhst/public/upload/journal/article/abstract/20160905NOU3p8-4-30-35-Orawan%20Theanphong.pdf

[Botany • 2010] Hohenbergia mesoamericana • the First Record of the Genus (Bromeliaceae) for Mesoamerica

Hohenbergia mesoamericana

  I. Ramírez, Carnevali et Cetzal

Abstract

Hohenbergia mesoamericana I. Ramírez, Carnevali et Cetzal is proposed as new, described, and illustrated. Because the genus was previously known only from the Antilles, Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil, this new species represents the first record of Hohenbergia for Mexico and Mesoamerica. The new species is morphologically similar to the Jamaican H. spinulosa Mez in having the bracts subtending the spikes far exceeding them (especially the lowermost) and green petals, but differs in several characters, including a more elongate peduncle and rachis resulting in a less dense infl orescence, shorter floral bracts, and pedicellate spikes. The conservation status of the new species is evaluated as critically endangered (CR) according to IUCN criteria. 

Key words: Bromelioideae, biogeographical disjunction, conservation, IUCN criteria, Mexico, Yucatán Peninsula.

Ivón M. Ramírez-Morillo, Germán Carnevali and William Cetzal-Ix. 2010. Hohenbergia mesoamericana (Bromeliaceae), First Record of the Genus for Mesoamerica. (Hohenbergia mesoamericana (Bromeliaceae), primer registro del género para Mesoamérica). Revista Mexicana de Biodiversidad. 81: 21- 26.

http://www.ejournal.unam.mx/bio/BIO81-02/BIO081000204.pdf

Resumen. Hohenbergia mesoamericana I. Ramírez, Carnevali et Cetzal se propone como especie nueva, se describe y se ilustra. El género era conocido solamente de las Antillas, Brasil, Venezuela y Colombia; por ello, este nuevo taxón representa el primer registro de Hohenbergia para Mesoamérica y México. Hohenbergia mesoamericana es morfológicamente similar a H. spinulosa Mez de Jamaica, por presentar las brácteas de las espigas muy largas (especialmente las basales) y los pétalos verdes. Sin embargo, difi ere de ella en varios caracteres, incluyendo el pedúnculo y raquis de la infl orescencia más largos, brácteas fl orales más cortas y espigas pediceladas. El estado de conservación de la especie nueva es evaluado como críticamente amenazado (CR) según los criterios del IUCN.

Palabras clave: Bromelioideae, conservación, criterios IUCN, disyunción geográfi ca, México, península de Yucatán. 

[Botany • 2010] Rubovietnamia nonggangensis • A New Species (Rubiaceae) from Guangxi, China

Rubovietnamia nonggangensis  F.J.Mou & D.X.Zhang

ABSTRACT

 A new Rubiaceae species, Rubovietnamia nonggangensis F. J. Mou & D. X. Zhang, is described and illustrated from Guangxi, China. The somatic chromosome number (2n = 22) and pollen morphology of the species are reported. The new species is characterized prominently by having dense hairs on many organs, such as young branches, leaves, and inflorescences, enlarged and foliaceous calyx lobes caducous after anthesis, and indehiscent and globose fruits with persistent yellowish annular floral disks on the apex. All morphological data support that it belongs to the genus Rubovietnamia, a genus distributed in Vietnam and southern China, currently classified in the tribe Gardenieae of the subfamily Ixoroideae.

Keywords: Chromosome number; Gardenieae; Molecular phylogeny; New species; Pollen morphology; Rubiaceae; Rubovietnamia; Rubovietnamia nonggangensis

 Feng-Juan Mou and Dian-Xiang Zhang. 2010. Rubovietnamia nonggangensis (Rubiaceae), A New Species from China. Botanical Studies (Taipei) 51:119-126.

http://ejournal.sinica.edu.tw/bbas/content/2010/1/Bot511-14.pdf

[Entomology • 2010] A Survey of the Emesine Assassin Bugs of the Tribes Collartidini, Leistarchini, Emesini, and Metapterini of Taiwan (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Reduviidae)

Figure 76. Bagauda zigzag sp. n., male (Pingtung County, Hengchun, Kenting National Park,

20 September 2007, photo: J. F. Tsai). 

Abstract

Thread-legged assassin bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) belonging to the tribes Collartidini, Leistarchini, Emesini, and Metapterini of Taiwan are surveyed. Eight genera and thirteen species are recognized, four species are described as new. Collartidini (represented by the genus Collartida Villers, 1949) is recorded for the first time not only from Taiwan but from Southeast Asia as well. Ploiaria ryukyuana Ishikawa & Tomokuni, 2002, Gardena albiannulata Ishikawa, 2005, and Stenolemus crassirostris Stål, 1871 are recorded for the first time from Taiwan. The species Collartida peregrina sp. n., Bagauda zigzag sp. n., Ploiaria huangorum sp. n., and Stenolemus alikakay sp. n. are described as new. Identification keys to the species of the above tribes occurring in Taiwan are presented, and their zoogeography is briefly discussed.

Keywords: Taxonomy; New species; New records

 Dávid Rédei and Jing-Fu Tsai. 2010. A Survey of the Emesine Assassin Bugs of the Tribes Collartidini, Leistarchini, Emesini, and Metapterini of Taiwan (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Reduviidae). Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift. 57(1); 11-36. DOI: 10.1002/mmnd.201000002

ResearchGate.net/publication/230457090_A_survey_of_the_emesine_assassin_bugs_of_the_tribes_Collartidini_Leistarchini_Emesini_and_Metapterini_of_Taiwan_Hemiptera_Heteroptera_Reduviidae

[Botany • 2010] Dendrobium roseiodorum • A New Species (Orchidaceae) from Vietnam

Dendrobium roseiodorum A.Sathapattayanon, T.Yukawa & T.Seelanan    c, Dendrobium kontumense Gagnep.;  g, Dendrobium ochraceum de Wild.

DOI:  10.3767/000651910X499240

Abstract 

In the course of revisionary work of Dendrobium section Formosae, we found some misinterpretations of Dendrobium kontumense. Dendrobium schildhaueri is placed as a synonym of D. kontumense and Dendrobium roseiodorum, a new species from Vietnam, is described. 

Key words: Dendrobium roseiodorum, new species, Orchidaceae, Vietnam

 Dendrobium roseiodorum A.Sathapattayanon, T.Yukawa & T.Seelanan, sp. nov.— Fig. 1, 2a, b

Dendrobium ochraceum de Wild. affine, sed petalis ellipticis-rhombicis, labello aureo-aurantiaco, et disco labelli verrucoso diversum. — Typus: Hort. Tsukuba Botanical Garden accession number 118269 (holo TNS; iso BCU), Vietnam, sine loc., 15 September 2008.

Dendrobium kontumense auct. non. Gagnep.; Schildhauer (2002) 369; Vestweber (2004) 38; Yukawa (2004) 23, f. 3–4.

Distribution — Vietnam (Khanh Hoa Province and Lâm Dong Province).

Habitat & Ecology — Recorded on boulders or tree branches; 1000–1200 m altitude. Flowering: September to November (in natural habitat), July to December (in cultivation).

Etymology — The specific epithet refers to the rose-like floral scent of the new species.

Fig. 2 a, b. Dendrobium roseiodorum A. Sathapattayanon, T. Yukawa & T. Seelanan (holotype). a. flowers; b. lip, note the verrucose calli on the disc. 

— c, d. Dendrobium kontumense Gagnep. c. flower; d. lip.

— g, h. Dendrobium ochraceum de Wild. g. flower; h. lip, note the obliquely elliptic side lobes of the lip and the verrucose calli on the veins

 (a, b: Hort. Tsukuba Botanical Garden accession number 144309; c, d: A. Sathapattayanon 408; e, f: Poilane 18280; g, h: Hort. Tsukuba Botanical Garden accession number 122822).

A. Sathapattayanon, T. Yukawa andT. Seelanan. 2016. Dendrobium roseiodorum (Orchidaceae): A New Species from Vietnam.
 Blumea. 55; 75–79. DOI:  10.3767/000651910X499240

http://repository.naturalis.nl/document/565069

   

[Entomology • 2010] Studies in Australian Tettigoniidae: Australian Pseudophylline katydids (Pseudophyllinae; Phyllomimini), with Description of Four New Species of the Genus Acauloplacella from Queensland

Acauloplacella (A.) queenslandica Rentz, Su, Ueshima, 2010
FIGURE 1. Acauloplacella (A.) queenslandica sp. nov. Paratype male from Kuranda, Qld., in typical resting pose. 

mapress.com/zootaxa

Abstract

The genus Acauloplacella Karny is recorded from Australia. Four new species are described, all in the subgenus Acauloplacella. The Australian representatives are related to those in New Guinea. All species occur in rainforest, especially along the margins. They are known from the east coast from disjunct populations from Iron Range south to near Townsville, Qld. They are nocturnal plant feeders with males uttering a stuttering call after dark.

Key words: Tettigoniidae; Pseudophyllinae; Phyllomimini; Acauloplacella; taxonomy; biology

Acauloplacella (A.) queenslandica Rentz, Su & Ueshima

Chirping Leaf-mimic

Acauloplacella (A.) hasenpuschae Rentz, Su & Ueshima

Sue’s Leaf-mimic

Acauloplacella (A.) incisa Rentz, Su & Ueshima

Etched Leaf Mimic

Named with reference to the median incision of the male tenth tergite.

Acauloplacella (P.) mecyna Rentz, Su & Ueshima

Iron Range Leaf Mimic

Named with reference to the very elongate “stalk” of the male subgenital plate.

FIGURE 2. A, Acauloplacella (A.) hasenpuschae  Rentz, Su, Ueshima sp. nov., paratopotypic male. B, Acauloplacella (A.) incisa Rentz, Su, Ueshima sp. nov., female from Kuranda, Qld. 

D. C. F. Rentz, You Ning Su and Norihiro Ueshima. 2010. Studies in Australian Tettigoniidae: Australian Pseudophylline katydids (Tettigoniidae; Pseudophyllinae; Phyllomimini). Zootaxa. 2566: 1–20. http://www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2010/f/zt02566p020.pdf