[Herpetology • 2026] Isthmohyla nacientes • A New Species of Stream-Breeding Isthmohyla (Anura: Hylidae) from Costa Rica

 

Isthmohyla nacientes  

Chaves-Acuña, Abarca, Navarro-Picado, Hidalgo-Mora, Ureña-Chaves, Valverde-Castillo, Chaves, Bolaños & Faivovich, 2026

   

DOI: doi.org/10.1643/h2024066 

 x.com/IchsAndHerps

Abstract

We describe a new species of the Isthmohyla tica group that occurs along the montane regions of the central Pacific of Costa Rica, between 1,400 and 2,000 masl. Although the new species is the sister taxon of a clade including an unde-scribed species and I. rivularis, it is more similar to I. tica. However, the new species can be distinguished because the flanks have scattered, distinct, round and irregular dark blotches or spots and because the advertisement call is comprised by a single, tonal note, typically emitted singly or in series, at dominant frequencies of 4,048–4,909 Hz, with a duration of 10–50 ms. The new species exhibits a broad acoustic repertoire composed of advertisement, release, and courtship calls, with the latter being emitted underwater. We discuss our findings with respect to adult and larval morphology, reproductive biology, and bioacoustics of the I. tica group.

Isthmohyla nacientes in life.
 (A) Holotype (UCR 24345), dorsal coloration at night. (B) Lateral view of male paratype (UCR 24367). (C) Ventral view of male paratype (UCR 24367), showing orange coloration on the hidden and ventral surfaces of the thighs and shank. (D) Male paratype (UCR 23770) showing bilobate, translucent vocal sac. (E) Lateral view of female paratype (UCR 24368).

Photos: B, C, and E by Gabriel Ureña

Isthmohyla nacientes, new species  

 

Etymology.—The specific epithet “nacientes” refers to the crucial role of headwaters and springs (nacientes in Spanish) in the habitat and life cycle of the new species and its stream-breeding congeners. This name highlights the species’ association with aquatic environments, particularly the springs found in its range, acknowledging the ecological significance of these water sources.

Wagner Chaves-Acuña, Juan Abarca, Jonathan Navarro-Picado, Esteban Hidalgo-Mora, Marilyn Ureña-Chaves, Alejandro Valverde-Castillo, Gerardo Chaves, Federico Bolaños and Julián Faivovich. 2026. A New Species of Stream-Breeding Isthmohyla (Anura: Hylidae) from Costa Rica. Ichthyology & Herpetology. 114(2); 337-356. DOI: doi.org/10.1643/h2024066 (3 July 2026) x.com/IchsAndHerps/status/2076689784525717838

  

We describe a new species of the Isthmohyla tica group that occurs along the montane regions of the central Pacific of Costa Rica, between 1,400 and 2,000 masl. Although the new species is the sister taxon of a clade including an undescribed species and I. rivularis, it is more similar to I. tica. However, the new species can be distinguished because the flanks have scattered, distinct, round and irregular dark blotches or spots and because the advertisement call is comprised by a single, tonal note, typically emitted singly or in series, at dominant frequencies of 4,048–4,909 Hz, with a duration of 10–50 ms. The new species exhibits a broad acoustic repertoire composed of advertisement, release, and courtship calls, with the latter being emitted underwater. We discuss our findings with respect to adult and larval morphology, reproductive biology, and bioacoustics of the I. tica group.

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

 

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

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

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.714.3.4 

Researchgate.net/publication/394682026

 

Abstract

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 Researchgate.net/publication/394682026_Lepanthes_vespertina_a_new_species_from_Costa_Rica

[Herpetology • 2025] Bolitoglossa chirripoensis • A New Species of Salamander of the Genus Bolitoglossa (Caudata: Plethodontidae) from the highest massif of the Cordillera de Talamanca, Costa Rica

 

Bolitoglossa chirripoensis

Klank, Chaves, Castro & Arias, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5642.5.2 

 facebook.com/Teonanacatl97

Abstract

The mountains of Isthmian Central America (ICA) are biodiversity hotspot and contain a high number of endemic amphibians, many of which have been described from the region in recent decades. Neotropical salamanders of the genus Bolitoglossa have undergone an extensive diversification in the mountains of ICA, specifically in the Cordillera de Talamanca The páramo of the Cordillera de Talamanca, despite being only 1.5% of its total area, harbors six species of Bolitoglossa, which represents 14.2% of the species of the genus in the region. Based on molecular and morphological analyses, we describe a new species of the Bolitoglossa subpalmata species group from the highest massif of ICA, the páramo of the Chirripó National Park. This new species emphasizes the importance of the Cordillera de Talamanca for the speciation of salamanders in ICA and as an important site for their conservation and study.

Amphibia, Isthmian Central America, Neotropics, Páramo, Phylogenetics, Taxonomy

Bolitoglossa chirripoensis sp. nov.

Jeremy KLANK, Gerardo CHAVES, Kimberly CASTRO and Erick ARIAS. 2025. A New Species of Salamander of the Genus Bolitoglossa (Caudata: Plethodontidae) from the highest massif of the Cordillera de Talamanca, Costa Rica.  Zootaxa. 5642(5); 427-450. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5642.5.2 [2025-06-03] 

 facebook.com/Teonanacatl97/posts/10233760963999899

[Invertebrate • 2020] Mongeperipatus kekoldi • A New Giant Velvet Worm (Onychophora: Peripatidae) from Costa Rica suggests absence of the Genus Peripatus in Central America

Mongeperipatus, gen. nov. 
Barquero-González, Sánchez-Vargas & Morera-Brenes,
Mongeperipatus kekoldi 

González, Sánchez-Vargas & Morera-Brenes, 2020

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/rbt.v68i1.37675  

  Researchgate.net/publication/339080977

Abstract

Introduction: Neotropical onychophoran taxonomy and diversity has been poorly investigated. Recent studies have discovered problems in species classification: they have questioned the accepted genera and the actual number of species. This is true in Costa Rica, where several unidentified species have been reported. Objective: The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the occurrence of the accepted genera in this country, and to describe a new genus and species from Central America. 

Methods: In 2017, we collected one onychophoran in the Keköldi Indigenous Reserve in Talamanca, Limón, Costa Rica. The specimen gave birth to several offspring. Therefore, seven organisms were analyzed. Light microscopy was used to observe the gross morphology in all samples. The detailed morphology was studied in the biggest specimen with scanning electron microscopy; after that, we performed a phylogenetic analysis with the corresponding sequence of COI. 

Results: According to our results, a new genus and species of giant onychophoran was found. The genus was identified by its giant size, apical piece of seven scale ranks, large conical primary papillae, dorso-median furrow flanked by two-three accessory papillae, the absence of hyaline organs and a marked sexual dimorphism with respect to the number of legs. The new species presents a particular head pattern, as well as novel structures like cephalic papillae, accessory papillae with rudimentary apical pieces, and a lack of antennal chemoreceptors. Phylogenetic analysis rendered our genus as monophyletic and includes Peripatus solorzanoi, which is grouped within the Central American clade. As our species is clustered inside the Costa Rica-Panamanian group, it is not related to the Caribbean Island nor Guyanan Shield samples, home of Epiperipatus and Peripatus respectively. Therefore, we suggest that those genera do not occur in Central America, and a new genus exists: Mongeperipatus, gen. nov. 

Conclusion: We concluded that Costa Rica is home to a diversity of undescribed onychophorans that requires specific studies to help clarify the taxonomy and evolutionary relationships of the group to justify their protection.

Keywords: onychophoran speciation, Costa Rican biodiversity, endemism, saproxilic taxa, phylogenetics

Mongeperipatus kekoldi gen. et sp. nov.
A. Adult specimen with bluish grey coloration and two rows of yellow papillae, its offspring has a pinkish brown color; B. Our biggest female size almost resembles that of Mongeperipatus solorzanoi; C. Female in its natural habitat.

Family PERIPATIDAE Bouvier, 1902 

Genus Mongeperipatus, gen. nov. 

Barquero-González, Sánchez-Vargas & Morera-Brenes

 Type species: Mongeperipatus keköldi, gen. et sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Giant size in adults, biggest specimens reach between 18-22 cm in length; dorsal integument with large conical shaped primary papillae (Fig. 3B, Fig. 4B).Dorso-median furrow is flanked by two-three accessory papillae (Fig. 5A).Conical apical piece with four to seven scale ranks and a central sensory bristle, thorn-shaped, straight or slightly curved with an ornamented base (Fig. 5B, Fig. 5C). Hyaline organs are absent (Fig. 5D). A marked sexual dimorphism is seen in the number of legs (32-34 pairs in males and 37-41 pairs in females).

Mongeperipatus keköldi, sp. nov.

Etymology: The species is named in honor of its type locality: the Keköldi Indigenous Reserve. The Bribri indigenous group gave the reserve’s name. It means “río bastón del awá” or “the river that supports the awá”. Awá means doctor in the Bribri language.

Mongeperipatus solorzanoi (Morera-Brenes & Monge-Najera, 2010). comb. nov.

 

José Pablo Barquero González, Steven Sánchez-Vargas and Bernal Morera-Brenes. 2020. A New Giant Velvet Worm from Costa Rica suggests absence of the Genus Peripatus (Onychophora: Peripatidae) in Central America. Revista de biologia tropical. 68(1) DOI: doi.org/10.15517/rbt.v68i1.37675 

 revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/rbt/article/view/37675

  Researchgate.net/publication/339080977_A_new_giant_velvet_worm_from_Costa_Rica 

[Entomology • 2025] Nudopeza cura, N. glypha, N. rutilans, N. sirena, N. zostera, ... • Nudopeza, a New Genus of Neotropical Micropezidae (Diptera)

 

  Nudopeza cura 
Nudopeza glypha

Marshall. 2025

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5020019

 

Abstract

The Neotropical genus Nudopeza (Micropezidae, Taeniapterinae) is described for a group of 41 species, including Nudopeza tapanti sp. nov. (type species) and Nudopeza pronigra (Hennig) n. comb. for Grallipeza pronigra Hennig 1934, Nudopeza arcuata (Hennig) n. comb. for Grallipeza arcuata Hennig 1934, and the following 38 additional new species: N. cegex sp. nov, N. cura sp. nov, N. duplitheca sp. nov, N. gilli sp. nov., N. glypha sp. nov., N. gracei sp. nov., N. hansoni sp. nov., N. horologia sp. nov., N. laselva sp. nov., N. mephitis sp. nov., N. mexicana sp. nov., N. micromephitis sp. nov., N. nigrivertex sp. nov., N. nigriscutellum sp. nov., N. nudarcuata sp. nov., N. penai sp. nov., N. palenque sp. nov., N. paramephitis sp. nov., N. peruviensis sp. nov., N. quadrivitta sp. nov., N. ruficincta sp. nov., N. rutilans sp. nov, N. sirena sp. nov., N. sumaco sp. nov., N. trinidadensis sp. nov., N. uniseta sp. nov., N. variterga sp. nov., N. venezuelensis sp. nov., N. verpa sp. nov., N. versivitta sp. nov., N. viriola sp. nov., N. viva sp. nov., N. yungasensis sp. nov., N. zarza sp. nov., N. zostera sp. nov., N. zumera sp. nov., N. zygoma sp. nov., and N. zytha sp. nov.

Keywords: new species; new combinations; Grallipeza

Nudopeza New Genus

Type species: Nudopeza tapanti sp. nov., current designation.

  Etymology: The generic name Nudopeza was used informally for many years to refer to species with a bare arista but otherwise superficially similar to Grallipeza. Because the name has been widely used as a manuscript name it is retained and formalized here even though the generic concept is now expanded to include species with a plumose or pubescent arista.

  Diagnosis: Most species of Nudopeza, including the type species, have a conspicuous white or centrally white scutellum, a white postpronotum flanked mesally by a characteristic black spot, an all or mostly black frontal vitta, and an angled black line dividing the fronto-orbital plate into a pale lower (frontal) plate and a variously pigmented upper (orbital) plate (the net effect is usually a black “V” running eye to eye across the black or mostly black frontal vitta). Male terminalia of most species are simple, with the basal distiphallus ending in a broad phallic bulb as in Grallipeza, although a few males have a short (N. verpa group) to moderately long (N. zostera) distal distiphallus beyond the phallic bulb and two species (N. mexicana sp. nov., N. glypha sp. nov.) have an extraordinarily long distal distiphallus extending far anteriorly into the abdomen along with a correspondingly elongate hypandrium. Female N. glypha and N. mexicana have extremely long spermathecal ducts that seem to correspond with the elongate male phallus. The spermathecal complex of most Nudopeza species includes a simple primary spermathecal duct running to a pair of long, characteristically twisted and often ornamented spermathecal stems; the secondary spermathecal duct is usually very small with a single small or entirely atrophied spermatheca, but some species have both the primary and secondary spermathecae and associated ducts strongly developed. A few species, including the type, have two pairs of spermathecae. One unusual species (N. penai sp. nov) is the only known micropezid with five spermathecae.

 Nudopeza cura sp. nov. Costa Rica (MNCR).
(A). Topotypic ♀, habitus. (B). Head and notum. (C). Spermathecae and associated structures. (D). ♂ Terminalia, left ventrolateral. (E). Phallus.

Nudopeza glypha sp. nov. Costa Rica, living flies (DEBU). (A,B). ♂♂. (C). ♀.

 Nudopeza rutilans sp. nov., ♀♀ Peru.
(A). holotype, living (MUSM). (B). Spermathecae and associated structures (DEBU). (C). paratype, living (DEBU).

 Nudopeza venezuelensis sp. nov. holotype ♀, Venezuela (DEBU).
(A). Head and thorax. (B,D). Habitus, lateral and dorsolateral. (C). Spermathecae and associated structures.

 Stephen A. Marshall. 2025. Nudopeza, a New Genus of Neotropical Micropezidae (Diptera, Micropezidae, Taeniapterinae). Taxonomy. 5(2), 19; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5020019 [12 April 2025]

[Botany • 2022] Aristolochia quiricoana (Aristolochiaceae) • A New Species from southern Costa Rica

Aristolochia quiricoana J.E. Jiménez, M.A. Blanco & M. Cedeño,

in Jimenez, Cedeno-Fonseca et Blanco, 2022. 

DOI: doi.org/10.21829/abm128.2021.1974 

 Researchgate.net/publication/356563400

Background and Aims: Aristolochia is the largest genus in Aristolochiaceae and is widely distributed in the world. A recent synopsis of Aristolochia in Costa Rica recognized 19 species; nevertheless, recent botanical exploration in southwestern Costa Rica has revealed yet another new species of this genus.

Methods: The new species resulted from fieldwork in Buenos Aires, Puntarenas Province. Specimens from several herbaria were examined, as well as the type material of the most morphologically similar species. Comments about its distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status and morphological distinction from related species are provided.

Key results: Aristolochia quiricoana, a member of Aristolochia series Thyrsicae, is described and illustrated from the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, where it is apparently endemic. It is similar to A. ornithorhyncha, from which it is distinguished by its shorter pedicels, wider, oblong perigone limbs with a shorter appendix, and a different floral color pattern.

Conclusions: The new taxon described here represents the 22nd species documented in Aristolochia series Thyrsicae, as well as the 20th species of the genus from Costa Rica.

 Aristolochia chapmaniana; Aristolochia ornithorhyncha; endemic species; flora of Costa Rica; taxonomy.

Aristolochia quiricoana J.E. Jiménez, M.A. Blanco & M. Cedeño, sp. nov.

JIMENEZ, José Esteban; CEDENO-FONSECA, Marco and BLANCO, Mario A. 2022. Aristolochia quiricoana (Aristolochiaceae), A New Species from southern Costa Rica. Act. Bot. Mex. 128, e1974.  Epub 28-Feb-2022. DOI: doi.org/10.21829/abm128.2021.1974

 Researchgate.net/publication/356563400_Aristolochia_quiricoana_a_new_species_from_southern_Costa_Rica

[Botany • 2025] Rhodospatha rubrinervis • An overlooked Morphological Feature in the Genus Rhodospatha (Araceae: Monsteroideae: Anepsiadeae) revealed through international collaboration, with the Description of A New endemic Species from Costa Rica

 

Rhodospatha rubrinervis M.Cedeño, O.Cubero & O.Ortiz,

in Cedeño-Fonseca, Cubero-Vásquez, Ortiz, Rodríguez-Arias, Serna-Sánchez, Trujillo-Trujillo, Jiménez, Zuluaga et Hay, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.260.154762

Abstract

A recent floristic survey in the Pacific slope of the Talamanca Mountain (Costa Rica), has revealed a new species of Rhodospatha, characterised by a bracteolate inflorescence. We describe and fully illustrate Rhodospatha rubrinervis from the Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. A detailed taxonomic description, as well as its distribution, ecology, phenology and conservation assessment are provided, along with a comparative discussion of its morphological affinities with R. forgetii and R. wendlandii. In addition, we present a brief discussion on the presence of a bracteole in Rhodospatha, a morphological character that, although illustrated by H.W. Schott 160 years ago, has not previously been described in detail.

Key words: Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, Monsteroideae, Pérez Zeledón, Talamanca, taxonomy

Rhodospatha rubrinervis. 
 A. Developing inflorescence; B. Spadix in female anthesis; C. Inflorescence with spathe, in female anthesis; D. Inflorescence with open spathe (back view); E. Stylar plate with stigma (left) and one stamen (right); F. Fertile flower, in lateral view; G. Bracteole at the apex of the peduncle; H. Portion of spadix with stigmas in female anthesis; I. Pre-adult plant; J. Portion of adult plant; K. Mature infructescence; L. Seeds; M. Spadix with pink sterile region at the apex; N. Juvenile plant; O. Transversal section of the ovary with two locules.

Photos A–D, I, J, K, L by O. Cubero; E–H, K–O M by M. Cedeño. O. Cubero 005 (USJ).

Rhodospatha rubrinervis.
A. Adult plant with inflorescence in male anthesis without spathe; B. Portion of the petiole with green punctuations and persistent petiolar sheath; C. Mid-rib convex abaxially and primary lateral veins with bright pink colour up to the middle; D. Geniculum dark purple; E. Abaxial surface light green with lilac and white punctuations; F. Longitudinal section of ovary showing 30 ovules per locule along axile placentas. Photos A by O. Cubero; B–E by M. Cedeño; F by A. Serna.

 Rhodospatha rubrinervis M.Cedeño, O.Cubero & O.Ortiz, sp. nov.

Etymology. The species epithet “rubrinervis” refers to the distinctive reddish colouration of the mid-rib and primary lateral veins. This striking venation not only serves as a key diagnostic character in the field, but also highlights the aesthetic appeal and uniqueness of the species within the genus Rhodospatha.

 Marco Cedeño-Fonseca, Oscar Cubero-Vásquez, Orlando O. Ortiz, Marilyn Rodríguez-Arias, Maria Alejandra Serna-Sánchez, Edwin Trujillo-Trujillo, José Esteban Jiménez, Alejandro Zuluaga and Alistair Hay. 2025. An overlooked Morphological Feature in the Genus Rhodospatha (Araceae, Monsteroideae, Anepsiadeae) revealed through international collaboration, with the Description of A New endemic Species from Costa Rica. PhytoKeys. 260: 185-199. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.260.154762

[Botany • 2025] Garcinia isthmensis (Clusiaceae) • A New tree Species for Central America

  

Garcinia isthmensis Mouzinho, 

in Mouzinho, Carrión, Marinho et Giacomin, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.708.1.2 

Abstract

We present a new species, Garcinia isthmensis Mouzinho, sp. nov. ined., known to occur in Costa Rica and Panama. Garcinia isthmensis is described and distribution data, photographs and preliminary conservation status are provided, as well as its diagnostic characteristics and morphological affinities.

Guttiferae, jorco, Mesoamerica, Neotropics, satra, Eudicots

Garcinia isthmensis Mouzinho (R. Aguilar 10734).
 A. Branch. B. Cut branch, showing the exudate with orange-colored oxidation. C. Leaf blades. D. Staminate inflorescence. Photos: Reinaldo Aguilar. Image courtesy of the C.V. Starr Virtual Herbarium (http://bluegum.nybg.org/science/vh/).

Garcinia isthmensis Mouzinho, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis:—Garcinia isthmensis is vegetatively similar to G. magnifolia due to its elliptical to elliptic-oblong shape and size of the leaf blades (≥ 19 cm long), but differs from it due to its slightly verrucose branches (vs. smooth in G. magnifolia), conspicuous exudate canals (vs. inconspicuous in G. magnifolia), staminate flowers with 40–55 stamens per flower (vs. ca. 30 stamens in G. magnifolia), non-rostrate fruits (vs. rostrate in G. magnifolia) and fruit pedicels of 33.5–44 mm long (vs. 7–10 mm long in G. magnifolia).

Etymology:—The epithet refers to the Panama isthmus, that connects Meso- and South American regions.

Thiago MOUZINHO, Juan F. CARRIÓN, Lucas Cardoso MARINHO and Leandro Larerda GIACOMIN. 2025. Garcinia isthmensis (Clusiaceae): A New tree Species for Central America.  Phytotaxa. 708(1); 16-22. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.708.1.2 [2025-07-02]

[Entomology • 2022] Description of A Neotropical Gall Inducer on Araceae: Arastichus gen. nov. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and Two New Species

 

the lifecycle of Arastichus gallicola with its host plant, Thaumatophyllum solimoesense (Arecaceae).  

Arastichus Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, gen. nov.

in Zhang, Gates, Hanson et Jansen-González, 2022.  

DOI: 10.3897/jhr.92.85967

Illustrated by Taina Litwak x.com/TainaLitwak1

Abstract

A new genus of a Neotropical gall inducing tetrastichine eulophid on Araceae is described and confirmed using Ultraconserved Elements (UCE) phylogenomic data. Arastichus Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, gen. nov., includes two new species and one species transferred from Aprostocetus Westwood: A. capipunctata Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, sp. nov., A. gallicola (Ferrière), comb. nov., and A. gibernau, Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, sp. nov.

Keywords: Chalcidoidea, Philodendron, Phytophagy, Tetrastichinae, Thaumatophyllum

Illustration of the lifecycle of Arastichus gallicola with its host plant, Thaumatophyllum solimoesense (Arecaceae).

Illustrated by Taina Litwak.

 Arastichus gallicola (Ferrière), comb. nov.

 Arastichus capipunctata Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, sp. nov.

 Arastichus gibernau Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, sp. nov.

 Y. Miles Zhang, Michael W. Gates, Paul E. Hanson and Sergio Jansen-González. 2022. Description of A Neotropical Gall Inducer on Araceae: Arastichus, gen. nov. (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) and Two New Species. Journal of Hymenoptera Research. 92: 145-171. DOI: 10.3897/jhr.92.85967

  twitter.com/TainaLitwak1/status/1650863255588573193

[Herpetology • 2025] Deep Cryptic Diversity in the Craugastor podiciferus Species Group (Anura: Craugastoridae) of Isthmian Central America revealed by mitochondrial and nuclear data

 (A) Craugastor aenigmaticus (UCR 22961) from Cerro Arbolado, Puntarenas, CR, (B) C. blairi (SMF 104032) from Fortuna, PA, (C) C. sagui (SMF 104018) from La Nevera, PA,
 (D) C. zunigai (UCR 20389) from Potrero Grande, Puntarenas, CR, (E-F) C. podiciferus (UCR 23155, 23159) from Caribbean slopes of Cerro Kamuk, Limón, CR,
 (J) Craugastor sp. Pico Blanco (UCR 24466) from Escazú, San José, CR, (K) Craugastor sp. Chumacera (UCR 23011) from Chumacera, San José, CR, (L) Craugastor sp. Siola (UCR 23169) from Siola, Limón, CR, 
(M) C. bransfordii from Siquirres, Limón, CR, (O) C. underwoodi from Cascajal, San José, CR, (V) C. rearki from Siquirres, Limón, CR.

in Arias, Crawford, Hertz et Olea,. 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18212

Abstract 

The Craugastor podiciferus Species Group contains eleven species of terraranan frogs distributed from eastern Honduras to eastern Panama. All species have remarkable color pattern polymorphisms, which may contribute to potential taxonomic problems. We performed exhaustive sampling throughout the geographic distribution of the group to evaluate the phylogenetic relationships and biogeographic history of all named species based on two mitochondrial markers and nuclear ddRAD loci. We also implemented various species delimitation methods to test for the presence of unconfirmed candidate species within the group. Molecular phylogenetic analyses showed that the group contains four major clades. All currently named species are supported by molecular data, yet species richness within the group is clearly underestimated. Species delimitation was discordant between the mitochondrial and nuclear datasets and among analytical methods. Adopting a conservative approach, we propose that the C. podiciferus species group contains at least 12 unconfirmed candidate species. Ancestral area reconstruction showed that the group originated and diversified in the highlands of the Talamancan montane forest ecoregion of Costa Rica and western Panama.

Photographs in life of Craugastor podiciferus species complex.
 (A) Craugastor aenigmaticus (UCR 22961) from Cerro Arbolado, Puntarenas, CR, (B) C. blairi (SMF 104032) from Fortuna, PA, (C) C. sagui (SMF 104018) from La Nevera, PA, (D) C. zunigai (UCR 20389) from Potrero Grande, Puntarenas, CR, 
(E-F) C. podiciferus (UCR 23155, 23159) from Caribbean slopes of Cerro Kamuk, Limón, CR, (G) Craugastor sp. Monte Verde (UCR 24613) from Monte Verde, Puntarenas, CR, (H) Craugastor sp. San Gerardo (CRARC 0247) from San Gerardo, Guanacaste, CR,
(I) Craugastor sp. Fila Costeña (UCR 23028) from Quebradas, San José, CR, (J) Craugastor sp. Pico Blanco (UCR 24466) from Escazú, San José, CR, (K) Craugastor sp. Chumacera (UCR 23011) from Chumacera, San José, CR, (L) Craugastor sp. Siola (UCR 23169) from Siola, Limón, CR, 
 (M) C. bransfordii from Siquirres, Limón, CR, (N) Craugastor sp. Fila Carbon (UCR 23127) from Amubri, Limón, CR, (O) C. underwoodi from Cascajal, San José, CR, (P) Craugastor sp. Quebradas from Fila Costeña, Puntarenas, CR,
(Q) Craugastor sp. Vereh (UCR 23040) from Vereh, Cartago, CR, (R) Craugastor sp. Panama (SMF 104010) from Rambala. PA, (S) C. stejnegerianus (UCR 22976) from Palmar Norte, Puntarenas, CR, (T) C. gabbi (UCR 22998) from San Vito, Puntarenas, CR,
(U) C. persimilis from Siquirres, Limón, CR, (V) C. rearki from Siquirres, Limón, CR, (W) Craugastor sp. Neilly (UCR 22985) from Río Claro, Puntarenas, CR, and (X) Craugastor sp. Quepos (UCR 24612) from Montes de Oca, San José CR.

Photos by E. Arias (A, E, F, G, I, J, K, L, N, Q, S, T, W, and X), Andreas Hertz (B,C, and R), Eduardo Boza-Oviedo (D and O), Brian Kubicki (H, M, U, and V), and Raby Nuñez (P).

Conclusions: 

The diversity within the Craugastor podiciferus Species Group is vastly underestimated, as revealed by the presence of several undescribed species recovered from the phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses. An exhaustive morphological review of the genetic lineages may show morphological characteristics that would allow for the differentiation of the molecular lineages. Comprehensive studies are needed on habitat use, acoustics, behavior, and other data to corroborate and better understand the taxonomy of all lineages revealed here.

Based on our mitochondrial and nuclear analyses, morphological evidence, and previous information we recovered 23 lineages, 11 with names and 12 unconfirmed candidate species. Based on our results, we propose the following changes:

• We restrict C. podiciferus to populations of Cordillera Volcánica Central from Costa Rica and the Cordillera de Talamanca of Costa Rica and western Panama. In the Cordillera de Talamanca, C. podiciferus is restricted to the Caribbean slopes.

 •Craugastor polyptychus is referred to as a junior synonym of C. bransfordii.

 • Craugastor rearki is resurrected to include wide-ranging populations from the Caribbean versant of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras.

 • Craugastor lauraster is referred to as a junior synonym of the older name, C. rearki.

Finally, we want to highlight the need to continue exploring remote areas in the ICA, especially in the Talamanca Mountain Range. The fieldwork performed in this area has resulted in the discovery of several new species or new records for the region. Therefore, more fieldwork and laboratory work are necessary to improve the knowledge of biodiversity in this region to perform informed strategies of conservation.

Erick Arias, Andrew J. Crawford, Andreas Hertz and Gabriela Parra Olea​. 2025. Deep Cryptic Diversity in the Craugastor podiciferus Species Group (Anura: Craugastoridae) of Isthmian Central America revealed by mitochondrial and nuclear data. PeerJ. 13:e18212. DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18212

[Herpetology • 2024] Bolitoglossa silentium & B. chiquitica • Taxonomic Assessment of the Bolitoglossa (Eladinea) Subgenus (Caudata: Plethodontidae) with the Description of Two New Species from the Cordillera de Talamanca, Costa Rica

Holotype of Bolitoglossa silentium sp. nov. (UCR20489) in life.

(B) Bolitoglossa bramei (UCR21930) from Valledel Silencio, (C) B. bramei (UCR23698) from Cerro Fábregas, 
(E) B. pygmaea (UCR23697) from Cerro Fábregas, and (F) B. pygmaea (no collected) from Cerro Echandi. 

Arias, Chaves, Kubicki & Parra-Olea, 2024

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5537.2.3

 Researchgate.net/publication/385654079

Photos by E. Arias (A,C,E), Victor Acosta (B), Brian Kubicki (D), and Omar zúñiga (F). 

 facebook.com: Erick Arias

Abstract

Isthmian Central America boasts a diverse array of salamanders, with a total of 72 species spanning three genera. Among these, a subset of the subgenus Bolitoglossa (Eladinea), stands out as particularly rare within the Cordillera de Talamanca. Many of its species have been discovered since 2009, with the majority documented from fewer than five specimens. In our endeavor to elucidate the taxonomy of this species group, we conducted fieldwork at Tapantí and the summits of Utyum, Echandi, and Fábregas, aiming to locate specimens. Our efforts have led to the expansion of the distributional range and the elucidation of the known body size of Bolitoglossa bramei, while Bolitoglossa robinsoni underwent redefinition. Furthermore, we describe two additional species herein, including a miniature salamander from Cerro Utyum and another salamander of moderate size from Valle del Silencio. As result of this study, the Bolitoglossa diminuta species group is now recognized to encompass seven species, all confined within the limits of the Cordillera de Talamanca.

Amphibia, caudate, Central America, Costa Rica, Panama 

Photograph in preservation of (A) Bolitoglossa robinsoni (UCR11216), holotype from Cerro Echandi and in-life photographs of species found in the Talamanca Mountain range during this study. (B) B. bramei (UCR21930) from Valledel Silencio, (C) B. bramei (UCR23698) from Cerro Fábregas, (D) B. diminuta (UCR24413) from Tapantí, (E) B. pygmaea (UCR23697) from Cerro Fábregas, and (F) B. pygmaea (no collected) from Cerro Echandi.

 Photos by E. Arias (A,C,E), Victor Acosta (B), Brian Kubicki (D), and Omar zúñiga (F). 

Bolitoglossa chiquitica sp. nov.

Costa Rican Miniaturized Salamander

Etymology. The specific epithet is a noun in apposition, it is from the Spanish word “chiquitica”, a popular diminutive used by Costa Rican people to refer to especially small things or animals. This name is given in reference to the small size of this species and its restricted distribution to Costa Rica. 

Holotype of Bolitoglossa silentium sp. nov. (UCR20489) in life.

Photograph by Luis G. Artavia.

Bolitoglossa silentium sp. nov.

Valle del Silencio Web-footed Salamander

Etymology. The specific epithet, silentium, is a noun in apposition and is from Latin, meaning silence. The Spanish meaning of silence is “silencio”, this name was chosen in recognition of the site where this species was found, Valle del Silencio (Silent Valley). 

Erick Arias, Gerardo Chaves, Brian Kubicki and Gabriela Parra-Olea. 2024. Taxonomic Assessment of the Bolitoglossa (Eladinea) Subgenus (Caudata: Plethodontidae) with the Description of Two New Species from the Cordillera de Talamanca, Costa Rica.  Zootaxa. 5537(2); 211-233. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5537.2.3

 Researchgate.net/publication/385654079_Taxonomic_assessment_of_Eladinea_subgenus_with_two_new_species_from_Costa_Rica

  facebook.com/eapiedra/posts/2477155595791262

[Ichthyology • 2024] Ophisternon berlini • A New Endogean, Dwarf, and Troglomorphic Species of Swamp Eel of the Genus Ophisternon (Synbranchiformes: Synbranchidae) from Costa Rica: Evidence from Comparative Mitogenomic and Anatomical Data

Ophisternon berlini   

Arroyave, Angulo,  Mar-Silva & Stiassny, 2024

Berlin’s Bloodworm Eel  ||  DOI: 10.1643/i2024055

 

A new highly troglomorphic and diminutive swamp eel inhabiting muddy subsoil in remnants of a tropical rainforest in the Caribbean versant of Costa Rica is described. Comparative anatomical and mitogenomic data support the distinctiveness of the new species and its placement in the genus Ophisternon. The new species is unique among Neotropical congeners in having: 1) a greatly elevated number of precaudal vertebrae, 2) proportionally longer and larger premaxillary, dentary, palatine, and ectopterygoid teeth, 3) palatine and ectopterygoid teeth in a single row, and 4) a small, narrow, and crescent-shaped gill membrane opening. A novel phylogenetic hypothesis of synbranchid relationships proposed herein, derived from comparative mitogenomic data, adds to a body of evidence demonstrating that Ophisternon is not monophyletic (with respect to Synbranchus). This phylogeny, however, strongly supports the monophyly of Neotropical Ophisternon, with the new species resolved as sister to a clade consisting of Ophisternon infernale + Ophisternon aenigmaticum. A pattern of northwestern lineage dispersal and cladogenesis within the Neotropical clade of Ophisternon after its divergence from Synbranchus is inferred from our phylogenetic results and present-day species distributions. Our findings also reinforce the notion that the classification of synbranchid fishes is in dire need of a systematic and comprehensive revision, particularly with respect to the limits and composition of the genera with presence in the Neotropics.

Type locality of Ophisternon berlini, new species.
 (A) Vantage point view of the Destierro River within the premises of Las Brisas Nature Reserve near collecting sites. (B) One of the artificial lentic bodies of water inside the reserve near collecting sites. (C, D) Photographs of the 2021 collecting site ... displaying the muddy nature of the soil at the time of collection. (E) Live specimen of Ophisternon berlini, new species, freshly dug out from the abovementioned site.

Unearthing of specimens of Ophisternon berlini, new species. Photograph displaying the process of pulling out live specimens of the new species from a block of mud collected at the type locality.

Ophisternon berlini, new species 

Berlin’s Bloodworm Eel

 

Diagnosis.— Ophisternon berlini is assigned to the genus Ophisternon by having a pectoral girdle connected to the skull by a forked posttemporal joining the supracleithrum at the level of the third vertebra vs. posteriorly displaced to the level of the fifth vertebra with posttemporal reduced to a simple rod and disconnected from the supracleithrum in Synbranchus (Fig. 4) and a branchiostegal membrane opening slit-like vs. small pore-like in Synbranchus (Fig. 5). Ophisternon berlini is unique among its Neotropical congeners in having: 1) an elevated number of precaudal vertebrae: ∼100 vs. ...

Etymology.— The specific epithet (a noun in the genitive case) is a patronym honoring Mr. Erick Berlin, a strong supporter of conservation and scientific research of Costa Rican biodiversity, discoverer of the population of swamp eel herein formally described, and owner of La Brisas, a private nature reserve that contains the type locality of the new species.

Jairo Arroyave; Arturo Angulo; Adán Fernando Mar-Silva and Melanie L. J. Stiassny. 2024. A New Endogean, Dwarf, and Troglomorphic Species of Swamp Eel of the Genus Ophisternon (Synbranchiformes: Synbranchidae) from Costa Rica: Evidence from Comparative Mitogenomic and Anatomical Data. Ichthyology & Herpetology. 112(3); 375–390. DOI: 

doi.org/10.1643/i2024055