[Ichthyology • 2026] Brachygobius jennie • A New bumblebee goby (Gobiiformes: Oxudercidae) from Hengqin Island, Guangdong Province, China

Brachygobius jennie  

 Tian, Wu, Lan, Lavoué & Huang, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.184142

Abstract

A new species of bumblebee goby, Brachygobius jennie sp. nov. (Teleostei, Oxudercidae), is described based on 31 specimens collected from the Hengqin Island, Guangdong Province, China. This new species is distinguished from all other valid species of Brachygobius by its extreme small size (SL < 9 mm) and distinctive number, position, size and shape of its black bars. It possesses four complete (forming ring) or nearly complete post-cephalic, relatively narrow bars, two of which are located posterior to the base of the anal fin. The first bar behind the head extends pigmentation to the first dorsal fin but does not reach the midventral line. The second bar, chevron-shaped and located below the second dorsal fin, extends pigmentation onto that fin and ventrally reaches the midventral line and the anal fin. Cytochrome oxidase subunit I-based analyses, including six out of the eight valid species of Brachygobius, show Brachygobius jennie sp. nov. to be more than 10% genetically divergent from other species, supporting the morphological diagnosis and confirming its distinct taxonomic status. With a maximum size of less than 9 mm SL (based on observations of 106 specimens), the new species is not only the smallest species of Brachygobius, but also one of the smallest known gobioid fishes.

Key Words: Fish, Gobioidei, integrative taxonomy, new species, miniature vertebrates

Diagnostic marking pattern comparison among all species of Brachygobius having four post-cephalic black bands, the last two located posterior to the base of the anal fin. Left column: schematic drawings highlighting diagnostic marking patterns based on information from type material and original descriptions; from top to bottom: 
Brachygobius jennie sp. nov. based on its description (this study); B. aggregatus, based on a drawing of a type specimen (plate 4 in Herre 1940); B. kabiliensis, based on the drawing of the holotype (fig. 19 in Inger 1958); and B. nunus, based on the drawing of a specimen of Gobius alcockii Annandale, 1906 (fig. 1 in Annandale 1906), a junior synonym of B. nunus, and the description of B. nunus by Hamilton (1822). Red arrowheads indicate diagnostic differences. Right column: photographs of live non-type specimens illustrating the corresponding left schematic patterns (all photos from the authors).

Live photographs of four paratypes of Brachygobius jennie sp. nov., illustrating intra-specific marking pattern.

Photographed by Mr. Haocong Yang and Mr. Danyang Zhou.

Brachygobius jennie sp. nov. 

 Jiangyan Tian, Jianyong Wu, Chunliu Lan, Sébastien Lavoué and Jianrong Huang. 2026. Brachygobius jennie, A New bumblebee goby (Teleostei, Oxudercidae) from Hengqin Island, Guangdong Province, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(3): 853-863.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.184142 [17 Jun 2026]

[Herpetology • 2025] Trimeresurus hongheensis • Integrative Taxonomy identifies A New Species of Trimeresurus Lacépède, 1804 (Serpentes: Viperidae) from Yunnan Province, China

 

Trimeresurus hongheensis

Liang, Ding, Wang, Vogel, Shi, Gong, Wu & Chen, 2025 

 

红河竹叶青  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2025.022

Abstract 

The genus Trimeresurus currently contains at least 56 recognized species of venomous terrestrial to arboreal species distributed across South and Southeast Asia. We collected several specimens of the subgenus Viridovipera in Yunnan Province, China in recent years. Based on morphological characters and phylogenetic analysis, we confirm that Trimeresurus yunnanensis is distributed in the west of the Honghe River in Yunnan Province and the Trimeresurus species living along the lower reaches of the Honghe River Basin and adjacent areas is an undescribed taxon. The new species Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from all known congeners by the pairwise genetic divergence in the mitochondrial cytochrome-b (p-distance≥5.0%) and 16S rRNA gene fragment (p-distance≥0.5%), and morphologically by the combination of the following characters: (1) hemipenes short and strongly spinose, with deep bifurcation; (2) a white postocular stripe bordered above and below by red or only a white postocular stripe present in males; postocular stripe white or absent in females; (3) the ventrolateral stripe is red (below) and white (above) in males and white in females; (4) iris brick red or sepia in males; iris yellow or rusty-red in females; (5) VEN 150–165 in males and 157–165 in females; SC 61–76 in males and 56–61 in females; (6) dorsal tail mostly rusty red; (7) 9–12 cephalic scales; (8) 19 or 21 dorsal scale rows at mid-body; (9) first supralabial completely separated from the nasal scale.

Keywords: Mitochondrial DNA, Morphology, Honghe River, Phylogenetics, Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov., Viridovipera

Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. in Yunnan, China, males (Left) and females (Right) in life
 A: Mingjiu, Mengzi (Holotype GXNU251201). B: Mingjiu, Mengzi (GXNU251218). C: Yuanjiang (Paratype GXNU251204). D: Yuanjiang (Paratype GXNU251205). E: Mt. Dawei, Pingbian County, Yunnan (Paratype GXNU251219). F: Yuanjiang (Paratype GXNU251203).

Photos by Li Ding.

Holotype (adult male GXNU251201) of Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. 
A: Dorsal view of head; B: Ventral view of head; C: Lateral view of head; D: Lateral view of middle body; E: Dorsal view of the specimen; F: Ventral view of the specimen.

Photos by Sheng-Chao Shi. Scale bars: 10 mm (A, B, C, D); 3 cm (E, F).

Comparison of head shape and coloration between males and females in Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. Left, dorsal view of head; right, lateral view of head.
A & B: Specimen GXNU251201 (holotype, male); C & D: Specimen GXNU251219 (paratype, male); E & F: Specimen GXNU251205 (paratype, female); G & H: GXNU251218 (female). A & C: Different head shape in males (more elongated skull vs short skull); B & D: Different iris color in males (brick red vs sepia); E & G: Different head shape in females (more elongated skull vs short skull); F & H: Different postocular stripe (present vs absent) and different iris color (yellow vs rusty-red) in females.

Photos by Sheng-Chao Shi.

 Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. 

Etymology: The new species name “hongheensis” refers to its type locality, the area around the Honghe River Basin, which is a boundary of the new species and T. yunnanensis. For common name we suggested as “Honghe green pit-viper” in English and “Hóng hé Zhú Yè Qīng (红河竹叶青)” in Chinese.

Diagnosis: (1) Head and body dorsum dark green, venter yellow green or light green. (2) 80% of the tail is rusty red, gradually fusing backwards, with dark red at the end of the tail. (3) Interstitial skin black. (4) Head dark green above, light yellow or light green below, clearly defined. (5) Iris brick red or sepia in males; iris yellow or rusty-red in females. (6) A white postocular stripe bordered above and below by red or only a white postocular stripe present in males, occupying only about 1–2 rows of scales across; postocular stripe white or absent in females. (7) Vivid, broad, bicolored ventrolateral stripe, red below and white above in males, covering 1–2 scales thick; thin white ventrolateral stripe present on the first row of DSR in females. (8) First supralabials separated from nasals. (9) Internasals separated by 0–2 scale. (10) Supraoculars separated by 9–12 smooth cephalic scales. (11) Head scales feebly keeled; 19 or 21 dorsal scale rows at mid-body, feebly keeled except for the outermost rows; VEN 150–165 in males (n=10), 157–165 in females (n=7); SC 61–76 in males (n=7), 56–61 in females (n=7). (12) Tail length to total length ratio (TaL/TL) 0.172–0.204 in males (n=7), 0.145–0.160 in females (n=7). (13) Hemipenes short and strongly spinose, with deep bifurcation.

 

Ya-Ting Liang, Li Ding, Xin Wang, Gernot Vogel, Sheng-Chao Shi, Xiong Gong, Zheng-Jun Wu and Ze-Ning Chen. 2025. Integrative Taxonomy identifies A New Species of Trimeresurus Lacépède, 1804 (Reptilia: Serpentes: Viperidae) from Yunnan Province, China. Zoological Research: Diversity and Conservation. 2(3): 182-195. DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2025.022

[Botany • 2026] Primula chongqingensis (Primulaceae) • A New Species from Chongqing, China

Primula chongqingensis K.Liang & S.R.Yi, 

in Liang, Zhang et Yi, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.2.6 

 x.com/Jungle_KL

Abstract

Primula chongqingensis K.Liang & S.R.Yi, sp. nov., a new species of Primula sect. Ranunculoides from Chongqing, China, is described. The new species is currently known only from Qianjiang District, where it grows on wet moss-covered rock faces and dripping cliffs beside streams and below waterfalls in shaded valley woodland. It is most similar to P. ranunculoides in overall morphology, but differs by its smaller leaves with markedly fewer lateral segments, stable long-homostylous flowers, pedicels and calyces covered with short glandular hairs, and a relatively short calyx less than half as long as the corolla tube, usually reaching ca. one third of it. Filiform propagative shoots with apical bulblets are only occasionally produced in P. chongqingensis, whereas similar structures are consistently and abundantly produced in P. ranunculoides. These combined vegetative and reproductive differences support its recognition as a distinct species rather than an infraspecific taxon of P. ranunculoides. A morphological description, distribution information, provisional conservation assessment, a diagnostic comparison with P. ranunculoides, and a key to the species of Primula sect. Ranunculoides are provided.

Eudicots, narrow endemic, homostyly, morphological comparison, Qianjiang District, sect. Ranunculoides, taxonomy, Wuling Mountains

Primula chongqingensis K.Liang & S.R.Yi, sp. nov.

KE (Jungle) LIANG, HONG-JING ZHANG and SI-RONG YI. 2026. Primula chongqingensis (Primulaceae), A New Species from Chongqing, China.  Phytotaxa. 763(2);  193-200. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.2.6 [2026-06-19]

 x.com/Jungle_KL/status/2067732578585460962

[Herpetology • 2026] Amolops minhlei • A New Species of Amolops (Anura: Ranidae) from Vu Quang National Park—An ASEAN Heritage Park of Vietnam

  

Amolops minhlei

A.V. Pham, C. V. Hoang, T. Q. Nguyen, V. T. H. Nguyen, T. T. T. Nguyen, K. D. Nguyen, Thai, N. V. Hoang & C. T. Pham, 2026 

 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.2.4  

 facebook.com/PhamAnhdhsphn 

Abstract 

A new species of Amolops is described from Vu Quang National Park, Ha Tinh Province, North-central Vietnam based on morphological and molecular differences. Morphologically, Amolops minhlei sp. nov. is distinguishable from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characteristics: SVL 31.8–35.8 mm in males, 36.7–45.8 mm in females; head longer than wide; vomerine teeth absent; snout long (SE/SVL 0.16–0.17 in males, 0.16 in females); tympanum distinct, round (TD/ED 0.41–0.42 in males, 0.40–0.43 in females); skin smooth; supratympanic fold indistinct; dorsolateral fold present; webbing formula I0–0II0–1/2III0–1/2IV1/2–0V; dorsum olive green or reddish brown with a few dark spots; a brown dorsolateral stripe extending from behind eye to above vent; dorsal surface of fore- and hind-limbs light grey with brown crossbars, throat, chest and belly white; males with external vocal sac and nuptial pad on finger I; and flanks grey brown with small white glandular spot. In phylogenetic analyses, the new species is strongly supported as a member of the A. monticola group. However, the new species differs from other members of the A. monticola group by 10.00–19.66% pairwise genetic divergence in the mitochondrial ND2 gene fragment and 1.56–6.67% in the mitochondrial 16S gene fragment.

Amphibia, 16S rRNA, Amolops monticola group, Ha Tinh Province, molecular phylogeny, ND2, taxonomy

Amolops minhlei sp. nov.

Ếch bám đá minh

ANH VAN PHAM, CHUNG VAN HOANG, TRUONG QUANG NGUYEN, VAN THI HONG NGUYEN, THUY THU THI NGUYEN, KY DANH NGUYEN, TOAN CANH THAI, NGOC VAN HOANG and CUONG THE PHAM. 2026. A New Species of Amolops (Anura: Ranidae) from Vu Quang National Park—An ASEAN Heritage Park of Vietnam.  Zootaxa. 5760(2); 225-247. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.2.4 [2026-02-23]

 facebook.com/PhamAnhdhsphn/posts/4486775618134704

  

[Botany • 2026] Ceropegia gengmaensis (Apocynaceae: Ceropegieae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

 

Ceropegia gengmaensis  P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun,

in Luo, Liu, Tong, Zhang, Wang, Deng, Goyder et Sun, 2026. 

耿马吊灯花  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.197333

Abstract

Ceropegia gengmaensis P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun, a new species from Gengma County, Yunnan, Southwest China, is described. Both morphological characteristics and chloroplast phylogenetic analysis strongly support its placement within C. sect. Chionopegia H.Huber. Molecular data further reveal that C. gengmaensis is closely related to C. salicifolia, C. mairei, and C. dolichophylla, yet it can be distinguished from them readily by its stem indumentum, leaf shape, and floral morphology, particularly the shape of the corolla tube, and features of the lobes. A detailed line drawing of this new species is also provided.

Key words: Ceropegieae, Chloroplast, Karst Landform, Morphology, Southwest China

Ceropegia gengmaensis. 
 A, B. Plant showing the rootstock; C, D. Upper and lower sides of leaf; E. Inflorescence with bases of adjoining leaves; F. Corolla tube dissected longitudinally; G. Side view of gynostegium (with sepals and pedicel shown); H. Top view of gynostegium with sepals shown; I. Ovary; J Pollinarium.

 Scale bars: 15 cm (A, B); 5 cm (C, D); 4 cm (E, F); 1 cm (G); 0.8 cm (H); 0.3 cm (I); 0.5 mm (J).

Morphological features of Ceropegia gengmaensis based on living plants collected from the type locality.
 A. Plant showing the rootstock; B, C. Leaf: B, abaxial surface and C, adaxial surface; D. Stem; E, F. Corolla: E, corolla from the outside with its base cut off and F, corolla with the tube dissected longitudinally; G. Small peduncle, part of the pedicel and petiole; H. White hairs on the inside of the base of the tube; I. Side view of gynostegium; J. Gynostegium from above; K. Pollinarium.

Scale bars: 15 cm (A); 5 cm (B, C); 4 cm (D, E, F); 1 cm (G, H, I); 0.8 cm (J); 0.5 mm (K).

Ceropegia gengmaensis P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Ceropegia gengmaensis shows affinities with C. salicifolia and C. dolichophylla, both of C. sect. Chionopegia . It differs from C. salicifolia by its erect to sprawling habit (vs. twining), elliptic leaves 2.0–5.5 cm (vs. lanceolate, 6–15 cm), densely pubescent stems bearing usually solitary flowers (vs. glabrous stems with sessile cymose many-flowered inflorescences), and narrower corolla lobes with only slight expansion above the throat (vs. lobes longer and wider, upper portion markedly expanded). From C. mairei it differs by the much less pronounced basal inflation of the tube (vs. a strongly inflated tube) and ... 

Etymology. Ceropegia gengmaensis is named after its type locality, Gengma County, Southwest Yunnan.

Vernacular name. the Chinese name is given as “耿马吊灯花” (gěng mă diào dēng huā) named after the type locality, Gengma County, Southwest Yunnan.

Peng-Rui Luo, Ang Liu, Rui Tong, Xin-Jian Zhang, Zi-Yi Wang, Tao Deng, David J. Goyder and Hang Sun. 2026. Ceropegia gengmaensis (Apocynaceae), A New Species from Yunnan, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 217-228. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.197333 [15 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Argostemma baotingense (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Hainan Island, South China

 

Argostemma baotingense S.P.Dong & H.B.Yang, 

 in Dong, Yuan, Wang et Yang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195404 

Abstract

Argostemma baotingense, a new species of Rubiaceae from Hainan Island, southern China, is described. This new species resembles A. bachmaense but can be distinguished by its suberect or creeping stem, linear leaves with a greenish-white abaxial surface, white and glabrous inflorescence, and glabrous calyx. An identification key and photographs of the nine Argostemma species in China are provided.

Key words: Argostemma, new species, taxonomy

Argostemma baotingense.
A. Plant in natural habitat; B. Flowering plant; C. Flowers; D. Calyx; E. Leafy branch, adaxial view; F. Leafy branch, abaxial view; G. Leaves, adaxial view; H. Leaves, abaxial view; I, J. A node with opposite leaves and stipules; K. Flower, apical view; L. Flower, bottom view; M, N. Inflorescence; O. Androecium; P. Pistil.

Argostemma baotingense S.P.Dong & H.B.Yang, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The new species is morphologically similar to A. bachmaense T.V.Do but differs by the suberect or creeping stem (vs. erect), the linear leaves (vs. oblanceolate to spatulate), glabrous inflorescence (vs. pubescent), glabrous calyx (vs. pubescent). A detailed morphological comparison between the two species is provided in Table 1. Photographs of seven Argostemma species in China have been provided (Fig. 2). A key to all the nine species of Argostemma in China is also provided at the end of the text.

Shu-Peng Dong, Lang-Xing Yuan, Qing-Long Wang and Hu-Biao Yang. 2026. Argostemma baotingense (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Hainan Island, South China. PhytoKeys. 276: 253-260. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195404   [18 Jun 2026]

[PaleoIchthyology • 2026] Asioaspis brachyotus • A New Genus of Polybranchiaspiformes (Galeaspida: stem-Gnathostomes) from the Lower Devonian of Yunnan, China

 

Asioaspis brachyotus

 R.-R. Zhang, N. Zhang, Li, Zhu & Gai, 2026

 

VERTEBRATA ALASIATICA. 64(2);   

 

A new genus and species, Asioaspis brachyotus gen. et sp. nov. of Polybranchiaspiformes, is described from the Lower Devonian Lochkovian Xishancun Formation near Miandian Reservoir, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China. The new genus is characterized by an elongated ovoid headshield with serrated lateral margins, a small subcircular median dorsal opening, short and laterally projecting cornual processes, an exceptionally broad ventral rim, 12 pairs of branchial fossae, and coarse granular tubercles (~3/mm²). It displays a mosaic of characters of the most primitive polybranchiaspiform (Platylomaspis), derived Polybranchiaspiformes, and even the basal members of the galeaspid family Dayongaspidae. Phylogenetic analysis resolves A. brachyotus as an intermediate taxon between the most primitive Gumuaspidae and other derived Polybranchiaspiformes. Although A. brachyotus also shares the broad ham-brim-like ventral rim with the Gumuaspidae, its other characters are more like other derived Polybranchiaspiformes. In particular, its median dorsal opening and paired orbital openings are not highly close-set on the top of the headshield as in the Gumuaspidae, but rather significantly separated from each other and close to the margin of the ventral rim as in the Pentathyraspidae, Duyunolepididae, and Polybranchiaspidae. These proportions indicate that it was unlikely to have lived a semi-infaunal lifestyle and are more consistent with the epibenthic habit typical of most galeaspids, representing an evolutionary transition from the semi-infaunal benthic to epibenthic lifestyle within Polybranchiaspiformes.

Photograph of Asioaspis brachyotus gen. et sp. nov. from Lower Devonian Xishancun Formation, Qujing, Yunnan in ventral view
A. an incomplete headshield, paratype, IVPP V26676. 2; B. a nearly complete dorsal headshield, holotype, V26676. 1
A. an incomplete dorsal headshield, IVPP V26676.5; B. an incomplete dorsal headshield, V26676.4b

Subclass Galeaspida Tarlo, 1967 

Supraorder Polybranchiaspidida Janvier, 1996 

Order Polybranchiaspiformes Liu, 1965 

Family Asioaspidae fam. nov. 

Type genus Asioaspis gen. nov. 

Differential diagnosis: The Asioaspidae is distinguished from other families of Polybranchiaspiformes by its short, ear-like, and laterally projecting cornual processes. It resembles the Gumuaspidae in having a broad ventral rim, but differs in lacking a rostral process. It differs from the Duyunolepididae, Pentathyraspidae, and Polybranchiaspidae by the presence of a broad ventral rim and further differs from the Duyunolepididae by bearing a pair of broad inner cornual processes. Therefore, a new family, the Asioaspidae fam. nov., is herein established.

Genus Asioaspis gen. nov.  

Type species Asioaspis brachyotus gen. et sp. nov. 

Etymology: Asioaspis is derived from Asio (referring to owls of the genus Asio characterized by prominent ear tufts) plus aspis (Greek shield). 

Diagnosis: Medium-sized polybranchiaspiform characterized by an ovoid headshield with serrated lateral margins; the rostral margin arcuate, but lacking a rostral process; the cornual processes short and projecting laterally; the inner cornual processes large and broad leaf-shaped; median dorsal opening small and subcircular in shape; orbital opening large, round, and dorsally positioned; the sensory canals are well developed, V-shaped posterior supraorbitals and four pairs of lateral transverse canals issuing from the lateral dorsal canal; ventral rim of headshield remarkably broad, 13.5–14.1 mm in width on each side (approximately one half of the width of the entire headshield); a large dome-shaped oralobranchial chamber (a composite chamber with both oral and branchial functions) with 12 pairs of branchial fossae; and ornamentation consists of coarse tubercles (~3/mm²)

 Asioaspis brachyotus gen. et sp. nov. 

Etymology: The brachyotus means short-eared, which is in reference to its short and laterally projecting cornual processes that resemble a pair of short ears on the headshield, as in Asio.

Type locality and horizon: Miandian Reservoir in the Triathlon Sports Park, Qilin District, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China; Xishancun Formation, lower Lochkovian, Lower Devonian.

Morphological comparison of Polybranchiaspiformes, Dayongaspidida, and Huananaspidiformes

A. Asioaspis; B. Dayongaspis (Zhang et al., 2024); C. Foxaspis (Gai et al., 2023); D. Platylomaspis (redrawn after Gai et al., 2018); E. Rhegmaspis (Gai et al., 2015); F. Rhegmaspis (Gai et al., 2015); G. Nanningaspis (redrawn after Gai et al., 2018)

A–E, G. in dorsal views; F. in ventral view.  

Phylogenetic diagram of Dayongaspidida, Polybranchiaspiformes, and Huananaspidiformes
Dayongaspis (Zhang et al., 2024); Platylomaspis (redrawn after Gai et al., 2018); Nanningaspis (redrawn after Gai et al., 2018); Polybranchiaspis (Liu, 1965); Foxaspis (Gai et al., 2023); Rhegmaspis (Gai et al., 2015).

No scaled

 Life restoration of Asioaspis brachyotus gen. et sp. nov. 

ZHANG Rui-Rui, ZHANG Ning, LI Qiang, ZHU Min and GAI Zhi-Kun. 2026. Asioaspis, A New Genus of Polybranchiaspiformes (Galeaspida, stem-Gnathostomes) from the Lower Devonian of Yunnan, China.  VERTEBRATA PALASIATICA. 64(2); 137-150.  DOI: 10.19615/j.cnki.2096-9899.260113 [20 April 2026] 

https://www.vertpala.ac.cn/EN/10.19615/j.cnki.2096-9899.260113

[Entomology • 2026] Cricotopus motuoensis & C. neomatudigitatus • DNA Barcodes reveal Cryptic Species of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) montanus Species Group (Diptera: Chironomidae) from Oriental China

 

Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) motuoensis Chen & Lin, sp. nov.,
C. (P.) neomatudigitatus Chen & Lin, sp. nov. 

in Chen, Z.-C. Zhang, Y. Zhang, Nyima et Lin, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5828.3.4 

Abstract

Two cryptic species of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) montanus species group (Diptera: Chironomidae) from Oriental China have been discovered by DNA barcodes. Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) motuoensis Chen & Lin, sp. nov., and Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) neomatudigitatus Chen & Lin, sp. nov. are described and illustrated. The validity of some previously described species is discussed, and the diagnosis of the subgenus is amended. A key to known adult males of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) is presented.

Diptera, Orthocladiinae, taxonomy, pupa, female, key

 

Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) motuoensis Chen & Lin, sp. nov., 

Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) neomatudigitatus Chen & Lin, sp. nov. 

YI-ZHU CHEN, ZHI-CHAO ZHANG, YAN ZHANG, TENZIN NYIMA and XIAO-LONG LIN. 2026. DNA Barcodes reveal Cryptic Species of Cricotopus (Pseudocricotopus) montanus Species Group (Diptera: Chironomidae) from Oriental China.  Zootaxa. 5828(3); 481-501. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5828.3.4 [2026-06-10]

 

[Botany • 2018] Lobelia hongiana (Campanulaceae) • A New Species from Guangxi, China

Lobelia hongiana Q.F.Wang & G.W.Hu, 

in Li, Wei, Liu, Chen, Hu et Wang, 2018.

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.95.20245

Abstract

Lobelia hongiana, a new species of Campanulaceae from Guangxi, South China, is described and illustrated here. This new species is most similar to L. chinensis and L. loochooensis, but differs by its elliptic-obovate or oblanceolate leaf, 2.5–3 mm long greenish-carmine hypanthium, 5 or 6 calyx lobes, purplish-white corolla, with yellowish-green blotches at the base of lower lobes, glabrous filaments, 7–8 mm long broadly obconic capsule. Molecular phylogenetic analysis has been conducted based on ITS and two chloroplast sequences (atpB and rbcL) and 14 taxa in Lobelia are included. L. hongiana is well supported as a new species by the evidence from both morphology and molecular phylogeny.

Keywords: Hypsela, Lobelia chinensis, Lobelia loochooensis, Southern China

 

Photos of Lobelia hongiana Q.F.Wang & G.W.Hu: morphology.
A Habitat B Part of one individual C A stem bearing leaves and a flower D–G Flower viewed from different orientations H–I Fruit viewed from different orientations.

Lobelia hongiana Q.F.Wang & G.W.Hu, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: The new species is distinguished from L. chinensis and L. loochooensis by its elliptic-obovate or oblanceolate leaves, usually sinuate-dentate margin; hypanthium 2.5–3 mm long, greenish-carmine; calyx lobes 5 or 6, shorter than hypanthium; corolla purplish-white, yellowish- green blotches at the base of lower lobes; glabrous filaments; broadly obconic capsule, 7–8 mm long; flowering time from May to July.

 

Distribution and ecology: The new species has been found in Huixian Wetland, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in China, with only two populations. There is a high probability that L. hongiana is also distributed at adjacent areas, given its vegetative propagation traits. Its living environment is wetland and farmland.

Phenology: The new species was found in flower from May to July.

Etymology: Species epithet, “hongiana”, is in honour of Prof. De-Yuan Hong who made a significant contribution to the authors’ knowledge of Campanulaceae.

 Zhi-Zhong Li, Neng Wei, Yan Liu, Jin-Ming Chen, Guangwan Hu and Qing-Feng Wang. 2018. Lobelia hongiana (Campanulaceae), A New Species from Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 95: 27-36.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.95.20245

[Botany • 2026] Oreocharis sihuiensis (Gesneriaceae) • A critically endangered New Species from Guangdong Province, China

 

Oreocharis sihuiensis  L.B.Ji & F.Wen, 

in  Ji, Wen, Jin, Xu, Li et Tang. 2026. 

四会瑶山苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.190710 

Abstract

Oreocharis sihuiensis sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) is described from Guangdong Province, China. Morphologically, the flower shape of this new species is similar to that of O. dayaoshanioides, but it can be distinguished by its leaf blade being adaxially densely pubescent, with hairs 0.2–0.5 mm long (vs. adaxially sparsely villous to villous, with hairs longer than 1 mm), lobes of the corolla upper lip subrounded and apex rounded (vs. broadly ovate to orbicular-ovate and apex acute), 3 staminodes (vs. absent or 2), disc margin cleft (vs. subentire), shorter filaments (ca. 6.0 mm long vs. 8.0–12.0 mm long), and shorter capsules (ca. 1.0 cm long vs. ca. 2.0 cm long). Considering its scarce number of individuals, and the presence of severe human disturbance, we preliminarily assess the new species as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR) according to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Key words: Medicinal plant, morphology, new taxon, Oreocharis cotinifolia, Oreocharis dayaoshanioides, taxonomy

Oreocharis sihuiensis sp. nov.
A. Habit; B, C. Flowering individuals; D. Leaves, adaxial (left), abaxial (right), and their partially magnified views (a, b. Respectively, showing indumentum); E. Inflorescence; F, G. Flowers, front and lateral view, respectively; H. Longitudinal section of corolla, lower lip (left), upper lip (right) and its partially magnified view (a. Showing indumentum and staminodes); I. Calyx lobes; J. Disc and Pistil; K. Capsules.

Oreocharis sihuiensis sp. nov.
A. Habit; B. Front view of a flower; C. Lateral view of a flower; D. Longitudinal section of corolla; E. Disc and Pistil; F. Capsules; G. Leaf, abaxial surface.

Oreocharis sihuiensis L.B.Ji & F.Wen, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. A species similar to Oreocharis dayaoshanioides Yan Liu & W.B.Xu (in Liu et al. 2012), but can be distinguished from the latter by the adaxial leaf blade being densely pubescent with hairs 0.2–0.5 mm long (vs. sparsely to densely villous, hairs longer than 1 mm), lobes of the corolla upper lip subrounded with a rounded apex (vs. broadly ovate to orbicular-ovate with an acute apex), presence of 3 staminodes (vs. absent or 2), disc margin cleft (vs. subentire), filaments shorter, less than ca. 6.0 mm long (vs. 8.0–12.0 mm), and capsules ca. 1.0 cm long (vs. ca. 2.0 cm). (Table 1, together with the type species of Dayaoshania, now namely Oreocharis cotinifolia).

Etymology. Specific epithet is derived from the type locality, Sihui City.

Vernacular name. Sì Huì Yáo Shān Jù Tái (Chinese pronunciation); 

四会瑶山苣苔 (Chinese name).

Ling-Bo Ji, Fang Wen, Xiu-Hui Jin, Yi-Da Xu, Bo-Heng Li and Bo Tang. 2026. Oreocharis sihuiensis (Gesneriaceae), A critically endangered New Species from Guangdong Province, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 175-182. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.190710 [12 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

 

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

in Ma, Yin, Xi et Shen, 2025.

 DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152 

 Abstract  

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

 

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

https://bsky.app/profile/anbf.bsky.social

[Botany • 2026] Oreocharis fulvovillosa (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from western Yunnan, China

Oreocharis fulvovillosa  M.Q.Han, H.Jiang & Y.Wang,

in Wang, Jiang, Xu et Han, 2026. 

德宏直瓣苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.182136

Abstract

Oreocharis fulvovillosa, a new species of Gesneriaceae, is described and illustrated. This new species has only been discovered on the rock walls of an isolated karst hill at its type locality in Mang City, western Yunnan, China.

Key words: Flora of Yunnan, karst, yellow flowers

 

Oreocharis fulvovillosa sp. nov.
A. Habitat; B. Plant habit in natural habitat; C. Adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) leaf surfaces; D. Petiole with long fulvous indumentum; E. Rhizomatous stem; F. Flower in adaxial view; G. Flower in abaxial view; H. Flower in side view; I. Flower longitudinally cut, male stage with immature pistil; J. Flower transversely cut, male stage with immature pistil; K. Immature pistil and stamens with dehisced anthers cohering in pairs; L. Flower in front view; M. Capsules at different developmental stages: two immature capsules (left) and two dehisced capsules from the previous year (right); N. Pistils at different developmental stages: left, at flower opening with immature stigma; middle and right, at stigma maturity; O. Transverse sections of ovaries, all arranged with the dorsal calyx lobe positioned upwards: upper image, ovary at stigma maturity; lower images, ovary with immature stigma, showing transverse sections of the upper part of the ovary (left) and the lower part of the ovary (right).

Oreocharis fulvovillosa M.Q.Han, H.Jiang & Y.Wang, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. The new species is most similar to Oreocharis bullata, sharing yellow corollas and bullate leaf blades, but differs in having crenulate leaf margins (vs. double dentate), a slender corolla tube ca. 1 cm long (vs. tubular, ca. 2.7 cm long), and shorter capsules 1–1.9 cm long (vs. 3.0–4.2 cm long). It is also similar to Oreocharis fulva in corolla shape and colour but differs in having bullate leaf blades (vs. not bullate) and crenulate margins (vs. serrate to crenate).

Etymology. The epithet refers to the fulvous (yellowish) colour of the long, soft hairs on the petioles.

Vernacular name. Chinese Mandarin: dé hóng zhí bàn jù tái, (德宏直瓣苣苔).

Yang Wang, Hong Jiang, Bo Xu and Meng-Qi Han. 2026. Oreocharis fulvovillosa (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from western Yunnan, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 17-23.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.182136 [08-06-2026]

 

[Botany • 2022] Cymbidium purpureisepalum (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae) • A New Species from China: evidence from Morphological and Molecular Data

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan, 

in Zhu, Ke, Zhao, Wang, ... et Lan, 2022. 

紫萼兰  ||  DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.538.3.5 

 Researchgate.net/publication/359082326 

 

Abstract

A new orchid species, Cymbidium purpureisepalum, from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular analyses. Detailed comparison of the newly discovered orchid with other members of Cymbidium indicated the new orchid is distinct from all other recognised species in Cymbidium. Molecular analyses based on nuclear (nrITS) and plastid DNA (matK) sequence data also support the status of C. purpureisepalum as a new species, which is sister to C. tortisepalum and C. serratum.

Keywords: Yunnan Province, Chinese orchids, Cymbidium, Cymbidium subgenus Jensoa

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan, 
 A. Flowering plant. B. Tepals. C. Pollinarium, front view. D. Column, front view.

Drawn by Wenqi Hu.

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan,
A. Flowering plant. B. Flower, front view. C. Flower, back view. D. Structure of the flower.  
E. Flower of C. serratum. F. Flowers of C. tortisepalum.

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan

(紫萼兰)

Etymology:— Referring to a flower with purple sepals, from the Latin purpureus (purple) and the Greek sepalum (sepal).  

Meng-Jia Zhu, Shijie Ke, Xuewei Zhao, Qian-Qian Wang, Guizhen Chen, Zhong-Jian Liu and Siren Lan. 2022. Cymbidium purpureisepalum (Orchidaceae; Epidendroideae), A New Species from China: evidence from Morphological and Molecular Data. Phytotaxa. 538(3); 225-233. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.538.3.5  

Researchgate.net/publication/359082326_Cymbidium_purpureisepalum_a_new_species_from_China