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

 

 Phyllopezus sapiranga

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

 

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

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Abstract

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

 

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

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

Phyllopezus sapiranga sp. nov.

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

 

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

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[Herpetology • 2022] Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis & H. yanshanensis • Two New Species of Hemiphyllodactylus (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) from karst landscapes in Yunnan, China, highlights complex conservation needs

 Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis 
[A-D] Hemiphyllodactylus yanshanensis

 Agung, Chornelia, L. L. Grismer, J. L. Grismer, Quah, Lu, Tomlinson & Hughes, 2022

DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2022.105 

 Researchgate.net/publication/362701828

Abstract

Karst habitats are hotspots of diversity and endemism. Their naturally fragmented distributions across broad geographic landscapes have led to the complex array of smaller evolutionary ecosystems that present unique challenges from a conservation perspective. Comprehensive biodiversity assessments of karst habitats have revealed that these ecosystems contain an almost unparalleled level of endemism, and many site-restricted species remain undescribed, thus posing considerable challenges for effective conservation management. Small rock-dwelling species, such as geckos, may be particularly prone to such isolation. In this paper, we discuss one such genus, i.e., Hemiphyllodactylus, and explore its diversity across karst landforms in Yunnan Province, southwestern China. Based on morphological and genetic data, we describe two new species of Hemiphyllodactylus from karst habitats in Simao District and Yanshan County. A phylogenetic tree for Hemiphyllodactylus was constructed using 1 039 base pairs (bp) of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2). The Simao and Yanshan specimens can be distinguished from all other congeners within their respective subclades based on uncorrected genetic pairwise distances greater than 6.3% and 4.3% respectively, as well as significant morphological differences. The discovery and description of these two new species brings the total number of described Hemiphyllodactylus species in China to 14 and indicates many more undescribed species from unsurveyed karst regions await discovery. Our findings suggest that karst ecosystems in Yunnan support a higher diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus than previously known. This study also highlights the importance of karst ecosystems as refugia for site-specific endemic species and the need for heightened conservation efforts.

Keywords: Discovery,  Endemism,  Geckos,  Reptiles,  South China

 Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis sp. nov.  
A: Holotype, KIZ 062064, male in life; B: Paratype, KIZ 062065, female, in life;
C: Paratype, KIZ 062072, male in life; D: Paratype, KIZ 062076, female in life.
A and B were collected in Simao District (photos by Ade P. Agung),
C and D were collected in Ning'er County (photos by Evan S. H. Quah).    

Habitat of Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis sp. nov. 

View of karst area in Simao District (A) and building where specimens KIZ 062063-KIZ 062070 were collected (B) (photos by Ade P. Agung).

Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis sp. nov.   

Suggested English name: Simao slender gecko

Suggested Chinese name: 思茅半叶趾虎

 

Diagnosis: Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from all congeners by a unique combination of the following characters: maximum SVL 40.87 mm; chin scales 7–10; enlarged postmentals; circumnasal scales 5–6; internasal scales 1–4; supralabial scales 8–12; infralabial scales 8–11; subdigital lamellae on fingers II–V (3 or 4)-(3–5)-(3–5)-(3 or 4); subdigital lamellae on toes II–V (3 or 4)-(3–5)-(3–5)-(3 or 4); dorsal scales 11–15; ventral scales 5–7; pale-gray base color on body, two lines of dark blotches running from neck to sacrum on dorsal side; dark postorbital stripe extending at least to base of neck; dorsolateral stripe indistinct or completely absent; ventrolateral stripe on trunk absent; dark postsacral markings bearing anteriorly projecting arms.

  

Distribution: Hemiphyllodactylus simaoensis sp. nov. is currently only known from Simao District and Ning’er County, Pu’er City, Yunnan Province, China.

Natural history: The holotype and seven paratypes (KIZ 062063, KIZ 062065–KIZ 062070) were collected on the evening of 6 July 2019 from a wall of a vacant building rarely used by humans in a forested karst area. The left and right sides of the building were densely covered by shrubs and trees. The back of the building was bordered by forested karst hills. The front of the building faced an old basketball court with several artificial lights, with the main road located further in front (Figure 7). The other 14 paratypes from Ning’er County (KIZ 062072–KIZ 062077, KIZ 062079–KIZ 062084, KIZ 062087–KIZ 062088) were collected one year earlier, on the evenings of 16 and 17 August 2018, from a cement wall in a forested karst area.

Etymology: The specific epithet simaoensis refers to the name of the district where the holotype originates, Simao District, Pu’er City, Yunnan Province, China.

 

 

  Variations in color and patterns of Hemiphyllodactylus yanshanensis sp. nov. 
A: Holotype, KIZ 062090, male, in life; B: Paratype, KIZ 062091, female, in life;
C: Paratype, KIZ 062092, female, in life; D: Paratype, KIZ 062093, female, in life.

 Habitat of H. yanshanensis sp. nov. 

B: Karst hill where specimens were spotted; C: Deposited eggs of H. yanshanensis sp. nov. in karst crevices

(photos by Ade P. Agung).

Hemiphyllodactylus yanshanensis sp. nov. 

 Suggested English name: Yanshan slender gecko

Suggested Chinese name: 砚山半叶趾虎

Diagnosis: Hemiphyllodactylus yanshanensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from all congeners by a unique combination of the following characters: maximum SVL 46.28 mm; chin scales 8–11; enlarged postmentals; circumnasal scales 5–6; internasal scales 1–3; supralabial scales 9–12; infralabial scales 9–12; ventral scales 7–13; dorsal scales 11–22; subdigital lamellae on fingers II–V (4 or 5)-(5–7)-(5–7)-(4 or 5); subdigital lamellae on toes II–V (4 or 5)-(5 or 6)-(5–7)-(5 or 6); subdigital lamellae wider than long on first finger (4 or 5); subdigital lamellae wider than long on first toe (5 or 6); pale brown color base on body with various transverse blotched patterns on dorsum; dark postorbital stripe extending at least to base of neck; dorsolateral stripe on trunk present; ventrolateral stripe on trunk absent; postsacral marking bearing anteriorly projecting arms.

Distribution: Hemiphyllodactylus yanshanensis sp. nov. is only known from the type locality in Yanshan County, Yunnan Province, China (Figure 9).

 

Natural history: All specimens were collected during the evening of 1 July 2019 on the surface of a forested karst hill in Yanshan County, Yunnan Province, China (Figure 10). There were several gravid females among the specimens collected, each containing two eggs. We also found two eggs placed together loosely in the crevices of the same hill, which we assumed were laid by Hemiphyllodactylus yanshanensis sp. nov. based on their size (Figure 10), indicating that its reproductive season extends into July (see reports on other Hemiphyllodactylus species in Cobos et al. (2016) and Grismer et al. (2015)). The karst hills were surrounded by paddy fields and several huts and houses were nearby.

 

Etymology: The specific epithet yanshanensis refers to the name of Yanshan County where the specimens were found.

Ade Prasetyo Agung, Ada Chornelia, L. Lee Grismer, Jesse L. Grismer, Evan S. H. Quah, Jian-Mei Lu, Kyle W. Tomlinson and Alice C. Hughes. 2022. Description of Two New Species of Hemiphyllodactylus (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) from karst landscapes in Yunnan, China, highlights complex conservation needs. Zoological Research. 43(5); 767-786. DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2022.105 

 Researchgate.net/publication/362701828_two_new_species_of_Hemiphyllodactylus_from_karst_landscapes_in_Yunnan_China

[Herpetology • 2025] Hemiphyllodactylus diaoluoshanensis, H. jianfenglingensis & H. lingshuiensis • Descriptions of Three New Species of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Hainan Island, China

Hemiphyllodactylus diaoluoshanensis Wang, Qi, Zhang, Zheng, Li, Song, Xie, Li & Wang, 
H. jianfenglingensis Wang, Qi, Jiang, Song, Yang, Yu, Li & Wang, 
H. lingshuiensis Wang, Qi, Yu, Song, Li & Wang,

in H.-T. Wang, Yu, Zheng, H.-Y. Zhang, X.-M. Qi, Jiang, M.-L. LI, S. Qi, ..., P.-P. Li et Y.-Y. Wang, 2025.

  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5633.2.1 

  facebook.com: Shuo QI 

 

Abstract

Three new species of the gekkonid lizard genus Hemiphyllodactylus are described from Hainan Island, China, based on morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses based the ND2 gene. This brings the total number of the known species from one to four, revealing the previously underestimated diversity of Hainan’s herpetofauna. The three new species, along with Hemiphyllodactylus typus, are placed into three different clades, suggesting multiple colonization events and independent evolutionary histories of the genus on Hainan Island. The known distribution of H. typus was further expanded in this study, and its current status on this island was examined, highlighting the cryptogenic nature of the species with unclear native and introduced ranges. These findings emphasize the need for detailed molecular studies using sensitive genetic markers and extensive geographical sampling to clarify its origins.

Reptilia, Hemiphyllodactylus diaoluoshanensis sp. nov., H. jianfenglingensis sp. nov., H. lingshuiensis sp. nov., slender geckos, southern China, taxonomy

 

Hemiphyllodactylus diaoluoshanensis 

Wang, Qi, Zhang, Zheng, Li, Song, Xie, Li & Wang, 2025

吊罗山半叶趾虎

Hemiphyllodactylus jianfenglingensis 

Wang, Qi, Jiang, Song, Yang, Yu, Li & Wang, 2025

尖峰岭半叶趾虎 

Hemiphyllodactylus lingshuiensis 

Wang, Qi, Yu, Song, Li & Wang, 2025

陵水半叶趾虎 

Hao-Tian WANG, Feng-Bin YU, Pu-Yang ZHENG, Hao-Yu ZHANG, Xu-Ming QI, Zhao-Xuan JIANG, Mao-Liang LI, Shuo QI, Han-Ming SONG, Hao-Cong YANG, Ming-Hong HUANG, Guo-Yi LI, Wei WANG, Shi-Li WANG, Yan-Ni MO, Feng XIE, Pi-Peng LI and Ying-Yong WANG. 2025. Descriptions of Three New Species of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Hainan Island, China. Zootaxa. 5633(2); 201-243. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5633.2.1 [2025-05-12] 

 facebook.com/ShuoQI96413/posts/2454674358199586

https://m.weibo.cn/detail/5165455830155586

[Herpetology • 2025] Homonota chelemini • A New Gecko (Phyllodactylidae: Homonota whitii group) from the Diaguita highlands, Argentina, with an updated phylogeny for the genus

Homonota chelemini 

Morando, Sánchez, Vrdoljak, Pérez, Sites & Avila, 2025

 

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/zsc.12725 

 facebook.com/IPEEC.conicet 

ipeec.conicet.gov.ar

Abstract

The South American Transition Zone (SATZ) connects the Neotropical and Andean regions, stretching from western Venezuela to northern Chile and central-western Argentina. In Argentina, the northwestern Altoandina Cuyana province includes arid and semi-arid ecosystems, particularly the Diaguita District, spanning Catamarca, La Rioja and northern San Juan. This mountainous region, including the Sierra de Famatina and Cordillera Frontal de los Andes, hosts species adapted to extreme conditions. Despite its biodiversity, the region's endemicity and phylogenetic uniqueness remain poorly understood, especially as these ecosystems face growing climate threats, such as heatwaves. Geckos (Order Gekkota) are one of the oldest lizard clades, with divergences over 150 million years ago. Particularly, the genus Homonota (Phyllodactylidae) is endemic to the southern cone of South America, primarily in Argentina, with species also found in Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia and Uruguay. As part of a broader investigation on geckos of this genus and to advance their systematic study, we generated data from two mitochondrial and 12 autosomal loci across 14 species, along with a comprehensive morphological dataset of meristic measurements and scale counts. Detailed analyses were conducted within an integrative species assessment framework. Consequently, we describe a new species of Homonota from the Diaguita biogeographic district in northwestern Argentina, representing the northernmost member of the H. whitii group. The species inhabits a mountainous region known for its micro-endemism, further highlighting the area as an important biodiversity hotspot for dryland ecosystems. Additionally, we provide an updated molecular phylogenetic hypothesis for the genus, offering new insights into the evolutionary history within Homonota and the broader biodiversity of the SATZ.

Keywords: endemic, integrative taxonomy, lizard, NW Argentina,  South American Transition Zone (SATZ)

Homonota chelemini sp. n. 

Mariana Morando, Kevin I. Sánchez, Juan E. Vrdoljak, Cristian H. F. Pérez, Jack W. Sites Jr. and Luciano J. Avila. 2025. A New Gecko (Phyllodactylidae: Homonota whitii group) from the Diaguita highlands, Argentina, with an updated phylogeny for the genus. Zoologica Scripta, 00, 1–19. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/zsc.12725 [01 March 2025]

Un nuevo gecko para la fauna de lagartijas de Argentina

https://ipeec.conicet.gov.ar/un-nuevo-gecko-para-la-fauna-de-lagartijas-de-argentina/

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[Herpetology • 2025] Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis • A New Species of Hemiphyllodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from western Yunnan, China

Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis

 Zhou, Wang, Cui, Zhang, Shen, Li, Liu & Rao, 2025 

 

 Laowo Town Slender Gecko | 老窝镇半叶趾虎  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.138964

Abstract

A new species of gekkonid, Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis sp. nov., is described based on three specimens from Lushui City, Yunnan, China. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a significant genetic divergence of greater than 4.8% in the mitochondrial ND2 gene and a combination of the following characters: maximum SVL of 38.5 mm; 10 or 11 chin scales; enlarged postmentals; 6 circumnasal scales; 2 or 3 internasal scales; 8 or 9 supralabial scales; 8 or 9 infralabial scales; 15 or 16 dorsal scales; 9 ventral scales; a manual lamellar formula of 3-4-4-4 and a pedal lamellar formula of 3(4)-4-4-4; 26–28 precloacal and femoral pore-bearing scales contiguous in males; 1–3 cloacal spur on each side; a dark postorbital stripe extending to at least base of neck; dorsolateral light–colored spots on trunk present; dark ventrolateral stripe on trunk present; dark dorsal transverse blotches present; and a dark and brown postsacral mark bearing anteriorly projecting arms.

Key Words: Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis sp. nov., integrative taxonomy, Lushui City, molecular phylogeny, slender gecko

Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis sp. nov.
A. Holotype, LW2024R006, dorsal view in alcohol; B. Holotype, LW2024R006, ventral view in alcohol; C. The ventral view of the head; black lines indicate chin scales; D, E. In view of lamellae formula counting on fingers and feet I to V; F. Lateral view of basal tail.

Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Hemiphyllodactylus laowozhenensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the combination of the following characters: maximum SVL of 38.5 mm; 10 or 11 chin scales; enlarged postmentals; 6 circumnasal scales; 2 or 3 internasal scales; 8 or 9 supralabial scales; 8 or 9 infralabial scales; 15 or 16 dorsal scales; 9 ventral scales; a manual lamellar formula of 3-4-4-4 and a pedal lamellar formula of 3(4)-4-4-4; 26–28 precloacal and femoral pore-bearing scales contiguous in males; 1–3 cloacal spur on each side; a dark postorbital stripe extending to at least base of neck; dorsolateral light–colored spots on trunk present; dark ventrolateral stripe on trunk present; dark dorsal transverse blotches present; and a dark and brown postsacral mark bearing anteriorly projecting arms.

Etymology: The scientific name “laowozhenensis” is derived from its type locality Laowo Town, Lushui City in Yunnan province. We suggest Laowo Town Slender Gecko in English and “老窝镇半叶趾虎 (Lǎo Wō Zhèn Bàn Yè Zhǐ Hǔ)” in Chinese.

 Hongxin Zhou, Xiaohan Wang, Liangwei Cui, Dongru Zhang, Ziqi Shen, Xiuyan Li, Shuo Liu and Dingqi Rao. 2025. A New Species of Hemiphyllodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from western Yunnan, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 101(1): 245-255. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.138964

[Herpetology • 2025] Oedura atra • A New Species of Velvet Gecko (Reptilia: Diplodactylidae: Oedura) from basalt habitat of inland north Queensland, Australia

Oedura atra 

Hoskin, 2025

Basalt Velvet Gecko  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5583.3.7 

 

Abstract

Many Oedura geckos are saxicoline, and a number of these species are restricted to outcropping of a particular rock type. Most commonly this is sandstone, but some species primarily occur on other rock types, such as granite or limestone. There are few areas of extensive basalt outcropping in Australia, and these are typically of young age. Here I describe a new species of Oedura discovered in the Sturgeon Basalt outcropping of inland north-east Queensland, an extensive outcropping of deep age. Oedura atra sp. nov. is readily distinguished from congeners by its relatively dark colouration, with pattern restricted to narrow, pale bands, and other morphological features such as a short, broad tail, and a relatively wide head. It is genetically divergent from, but allied to, several Oedura species in inland north Queensland, with the ND4 mtDNA phylogeny suggesting closest relationship to O. argentea Hoskin, Zozaya & Vanderduys, 2018. Oedura atra sp. nov. appears to be restricted to basalt rocks and is only known from a localised area. However, it is likely to be more widely distributed along the extensive basalt outcropping in this region. Oedura atra sp. nov. best fits a conservation status of Data Deficient, pending further surveys and assessment of potential threats.

 Reptilia, colour pattern, Oedura argentea, Oedura atra sp. nov., saxicoline, Sturgeon Basalt

Oedura atra sp. nov. in life:
(A, B) adults with original tails, (C)  ventral surface of adult with an original tail (note egg visible through ventral surface), (D) adult with regrown tail, (E) subadult with original tail (note skin about to shed), (F) juvenile with original tail.

Panel D shows QM J98082 in life; the other individuals were photographed in the wild and not collected.

Oedura atra sp. nov. 

Basalt Velvet Gecko

Diagnosis. Oedura atra sp. nov. is a medium-sized Oedura with a body pattern of narrow, pale bands on a dark background; a tail that is relatively short (original TL/SVL 0.55–0.58; regrown TL/SVL 0.46–0.47) and wide (original TW/TL 0.24–0.30; regrown TW/TL 0.34–0.35); a relatively wide head (HW/SVL 0.20–0.21); a pale nuchal band that is narrowly continuous with the pale line along the mouth to the snout; a single cloacal spur on each side; a dark brown/copper iris; and a rostral scale only partially divided by a medial vertical groove.

Etymology. From the Latin adjective atra, meaning black or dark, in reference to the dark colouration of this species. The name is used here as an adjective.

Comparison of Oedura atra sp. nov. (A) with nearby Oedura species with body pattern of bands or elongate blotches:
O. argentea (B), O. monilis (C), O. castelnaui (D).

Photos: Scott Macor (A), Stephen Zozaya (C), Conrad Hoskin (B, D).

Conrad J. HOSKIN. 2025. A New Species of Velvet Gecko (Diplodactylidae: Oedura) from basalt habitat of inland north Queensland, Australia.  Zootaxa. 5583(3); 549-559. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5583.3.7 

[Paleontology • 2022] Geiseleptes delfinoi • A New Gecko (Squamata: Gekkota) from the Eocene of Geiseltal (Germany) implies long-term persistence of European Sphaerodactylidae

 Geiseleptes delfinoi    

Villa, Wings & Rabi, 2022

DOI: 10.1002/spp2.1434  

Abstract

Gekkota (geckos and pygopods) constitute a diverse and early diverging clade of squamates, but their highly fragmentary fossil record allows only limited insights into their evolutionary history. Even long-known classic Palaeogene Lagerstätten, such as the Eocene Messel and Geiseltal, remained uninformative for gecko evolution. Here we describe an articulated near-complete crown-gekkotan skull from the Eocene of Geiseltal. The skull represents one of the most complete and oldest fossil geckos from the Cenozoic and warrants the naming of a new taxon, Geiseleptes delfinoi gen. et sp. nov. Parsimony analysis of an expanded morphological dataset that comprehensively samples fossil geckos recovers at least two lineages in the Palaeogene of Europe: Gekkonidae and Sphaerodactylidae. Further clades may have been present but require further support. The new species, together with several other European extinct taxa, belongs to the extant clade Sphaerodactylidae. Published molecular phylogenies imply a European dispersal from Africa for the clade, and G. delfinoi constrains the timing of this event to no later than the middle Eocene. Within Sphaerodactylidae, several Eocene, Oligocene and Miocene species form the stem-lineage of the extant Mediterranean-endemic Euleptes europaea of which G. delfinoi is the oldest representative. We here define the new clade Euleptinae for this group. Euleptine geckos had an unusually long evolutionary history in Cenozoic Europe and may represent one of the very few vertebrate clades with a persistent presence since the early Palaeogene, indicating extreme adaptability. As the oldest known crown-sphaerodactylid, G. delfinoi represents an important fossil calibration for divergence dating analyses of geckos.

Keywords: Palaeogene, Europe, phylogeny, Sphaerodactylidae, lizard, gecko

 Geiseleptes delfinoi gen. et sp. nov. 

Andrea Villa, Oliver Wings and Márton Rabi. 2022. A New Gecko (Squamata, Gekkota) from the Eocene of Geiseltal (Germany) implies long-term persistence of European Sphaerodactylidae. Papers in Palaeontology. 8(3); e1434. DOI: 10.1002/spp2.1434  

  phys.org/news/2022-06-history-european-geckos.html

[Herpetology • 2024] Asaccus authenticus • Taxonomy of Iranian Asaccus (Squamata: Phyllodactylidae) with Description of A New Species from southern Iran

 

Asaccus authenticus

Nazarov, Nabizadeh, Rajabizadeh, Melnikov, Volkova, Poyarkov & Rastegar-Pouyani, 2024

Bandar-e Jask Leaf-toed Gecko  ||  DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5514.2.1 

 Researchgate.net/publication/384359685

Abstract

We provide the first diversity assessment of Iranian species of the genus Asaccus based on COI DNA-barcoding. We analyzed 53 samples of Iranian Asaccus representing nine OTU corresponding to 10 currently recognzied nominal species, and evaluated both morphological and genetic data to support the recognition of a new species from Bandar-e Jask, Hormozgan Province, southern Iran—Asaccus authenticus sp. nov. The new species is characterized by medium body size (SVL max 55.5 mm), elongated limbs, and relatively small dorsal tubercles arranged in 12–14 regular rows. Morphologically Asaccus authenticus sp. nov. resembles both Arabian and Iranian representatives of the genus; phylogenetically it forms a highly divergent lineage with sister relationships to all other Iranian congeners. We applied the geometric morphometrics method to compare the position and shape of postmental plates for almost all members of Asaccus and evaluated the importance of this character in species diagnostics in this group. We also critically evaluate the recent phylogenetic data on Asaccus and discuss the most problematic questions on taxonomy of this genus. We also revalidate Asaccus ingae (Eiselt, 1973) as a full species; overall our work raises the total number of species of the genus Asaccus to 20.

Reptilia, systematics, phylogeny, COI, mtdNa, barcoding, distribution, Zagros Mountains, Persian gulf, reptiles 

Asaccus authenticus sp. nov.

Etymology: the species name ‘authenticus’ is a latin adjective in nominative singular (masculine gender), meaning ‘genuine’ or ‘original’. the name is given in reference to the distant phylogenetic position of Asaccus authenticus sp. nov. with respect to other Iranian congeners, as revealed by the latest phylogenetic studies (Fattahiet al., 2020). We propose “Bandar-e Jask Leaf-toed Gecko” as a common name of the new species.  

 Roman A. Nazarov, Hossein Nabizadeh, Mehdi Rajabizadeh, Daniel A. Melnikov, Valentina R. Volkova, Nikolay A. Poyarkov and Eskandar Rastegar-Pouyani. 2024. Taxonomy of Iranian Asaccus (Squamata: Phyllodactylidae) with Description of A New Species from southern Iran.  Zootaxa. 5514(2); 101-128. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5514.2.1

  Researchgate.net/publication/384359685_Taxonomy_of_Iranian_Asaccus_with_description_of_a_new_species_from_southern_Iran

[Herpetology • 2024] Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus • Morphology and Molecular Systematics support A New Species of Pseudogonatodes (Gekkota: Sphaerodactylidae) from Venezuela with a remarkable telescoped skull

Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus  

 Schargel, Hernández-Morales, Daza, Jowers, Montes-Correa, Freitas, Sullivan, Gamble & Rivas. 2024

DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae120

  x.com/ZoolJLinnSoc 

   Researchgate.net/publication/384967715

Photograph by Luis A. Rodríguez J. 

Abstract

We describe a new species of miniaturized gecko (genus Pseudogonatodes) from the Peninsula de Paria in northeastern Venezuela. Externally, the new species resembles Pseudogonatodes furvus and Pseudogonatodes manessi, from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia and the Central Coastal Range in Venezuela, respectively; however, it differs from these species in terms of molecular genetic data (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and c-mos), osteological characters, and scale counts. The new species is unique in skull osteology, and we adopt the term ‘telescoped’ from the literature to describe the overlap of bones in the snout, in particular the premaxilla fully separating the nasal bones and contacting the frontal bone. The new species is also the only known species of Pseudogonatodes with fused parietal bones. Using molecular data, we present the first phylogeny of Pseudogonatodes, including six of the nine species in the genus. The new species is sister to P. manessi, which is consistent with biogeographical patterns in the mountainous areas of northern Venezuela. The phylogenetic results also indicate that Pseudogonatodes guianensis is non-monophyletic and raise the possibility of resurrecting the name Pseudogonatodes amazonicus. However, large sampling gaps in Amazonia prevent us from rigorously assessing species limits and proposing a taxonomic change.

gecko, micro-computed tomography scan, montane forests, Peninsula de Paria, reptile, skeleton, sphaerodactyl, taxonomy

 Telescoped patern of the skull of Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus  (MBLUZ 1292, top), compared with Pseudogonatodes manessi (KU 182740, botom). Arrows indicate the facets that support each dorsal bone.

Colours are as follows: purple, premaxilla; cobalt blue, nasal; light blue, frontal; green, parieta

 Specimens of Pseudogonatodes from northern South America in life.
A, Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus female (presumably) paratype (MBLUZ 1293), Cerro El Olvido, Venezuela. B, Pseudogonatodes manessi, female, Rancho Grande, Parque Nacional Henri Pitier, Venezuela (MHNLS 17984).
C, Pseudogonatodes furvus, male topotype, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia (CBUMAG:REP:00767). D, Pseudogonatodes manessi, young specimen, from La Cumbre, Municipio Bruzual, Sierra de Aroa, Venezuela; this individual would represent the westernmost limit of the species.
E, view of Cerro Azul from Cerro El Olvido, two of the highest mountains with humid forests at the eastern end of the Paria Peninsula, Venezuela. F, undergrowth with abundant decomposing organic mater and rocks, an environment where P. fuscofortunatus lives.

Photographs: Luis A. Rodríguez J. (A), Eric N. Smith (B), Andrés C. Montes-Correa (C), Alberto Navas and Edward Camargo (D), and Gilson Rivas (E, F)

Walter E. Schargel, Cristian Hernández-Morales, Juan D. Daza, Michael J. Jowers, Andrés Camilo Montes-Correa, Mayke De Freitas, Kathryn A. Sullivan, Tony Gamble, Aaron M. Bauer and Gilson A. Rivas. 2024. Morphology and Molecular Systematics support A New Species of Pseudogonatodes (Squamata: Gekkota: Sphaerodactylidae) from Venezuela with a remarkable telescoped skull. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. 202(2); zlae120. DOI: doi.org/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae120

  x.com/ZoolJLinnSoc/status/1848332252054278398 

  x.com/bio_cristian/status/1846561430524317788

  Researchgate.net/publication/384967715_a_new_species_of_Pseudogonatodes_from_Venezuela

[Herpetology • 2024] Diplodactylus fyfei & D. tjoritjarinya • Vicars in the Desert: Substrate Specialisation and Paleo-erosion underpin Cryptic Speciation in An Australian Arid-zone Lizard Lineage (Reptilia: Diplodactylidae: Diplodactylus)

 

  Diplodactylus fyfei sp. nov. from foothills of Mt Beddome on New Crown Station, NT; 
 D. tjoritjarinya sp. nov. from Tjoritja National Park, Northern Territory. 

McDonald, Fenner, Torkkola & Oliver, 2024

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/vz.74.e128775

photos by P. McDonald & A. Fenner

 

Abstract

Stable upland habitats in arid zone biomes are often characterised by locally endemic lineages. Explanations for this pattern include habitat or substrate specialisation (ecological specialisation) or intensifying aridity driving retreat into climatically buffered habitats (climatic refugia). Here we present an analysis of these alternative models using genetic, morphological and climate data for Diplodactylus galeatus, a gecko from central Australia that occurs in a series of isolated populations associated with dissected tablelands and mountain ranges. Analyses of mtDNA and SNP data support four distinct lineages, and dating analyses suggest divergence through the Pliocene. Morphological data show slight differences across lineages. Investigation of climate niche shows that two lineages are restricted to areas more arid than the intervening uninhabited region. These data suggest that specialisation to rocky substrates, potentially with subsequent paleo-erosion of dissected tablelands after a Pliocene wet pulse, was the key driver of divergence in this clade. Based on their deep genetic divergence, and differences in morphology and pattern, we recognise two isolated populations as new species.

Keywords: Aridfication, Diplodactylus fyfei sp. nov, Diplodactylus galeatus, Diplodactylus tjoritjarinya sp. nov., paleo-erosion, stony deserts, vicariance

Colour-pattern variation in the Diplodactylus galeatus species complex:
A, B Diplodactylus galeatus from Coober Pedy, SA (P. McDonald, A. Fenner),
 C, D Diplodactylus fyfei sp. nov. from foothills of Mt Beddome on New Crown Station, NT (P. McDonald, A. Fenner); 
E, F D. tjoritjarinya sp. nov. from Tjoritja National Park, Northern Territory (P. McDonald).

Genus Diplodactylus Gray, 1832

Type species: Diplodactylus vittatus Gray, 1832

Diplodactylus galeatus Kluge, 1973

Southern mesa gecko

Etymology: Derived from the Latin word galea meaning covered with a helmet in reference to the dark occipital cap.

Diplodactylus fyfei sp. nov.

Fyfe’s mesa gecko

Etymology: Named for the pioneering herpetologist Greg Fyfe in recognition of his substantial contribution to the knowledge and conservation of central Australia’s reptile fauna.

Diplodactylus tjoritjarinya sp. nov.

Tjoritja gecko

Etymology: Tjoritja is a Western and Central Aranda name for the MacDonnell Ranges. Aranda people sometimes refer to themselves as Tjoritja-rinya (pronounced ‘choor-it-ja-rin-ya’) – meaning belonging to Tjoritja. This name respects that Tjoritja is a living cultural landscape to which this gecko belongs and was suggested as a name for this gecko by the Traditional Owners of Tjoritja National Park. Used as a noun in apposition.

Peter J. McDonald, Aaron L. Fenner, Janne Torkkola, Paul M. Oliver. 2024. Vicars in the Desert: Substrate Specialisation and Paleo-erosion underpin Cryptic Speciation in An Australian Arid-zone Lizard Lineage (Diplodactylidae: Diplodactylus). Vertebrate Zoology. 74: 577-594. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/vz.74.e128775

[Herpetology • 2024] Nactus simakal • A New Species of Nactus Gecko (Gekkonidae) from Boulder-pile Habitat on Dauan Island, Torres Strait, Australia

 

Nactus simakal 

Hoskin, Davies & Aland, 2024

Dauan Island Gecko  ||  DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5497.4.7

 

Abstract

The Torres Strait Islands lie between Cape York Peninsula, north-east Australia, and the southern coast of Papua New Guinea. The vertebrate fauna of these islands is a relatively depauperate mix of Australian and New Guinean species, with only two endemic species described to date. Here we describe a new species of Nactus gecko discovered during a targeted survey of Dauan Island in the northern Torres Strait. Nactus simakal sp. nov. is a genetically (ND2 mtDNA) and morphologically highly distinct species, with a banded pattern and a slender, elongate form. It is saxicoline, living on deeply piled boulder habitat, and is likely to be restricted to Dauan Island. Nactus simakal sp. nov. is currently known from a very small area and further surveys, and assessment of current and potential threats, are required to assess the conservation status of this species. Nactus simakal sp. nov. is similar in general appearance to N. galgajuga (Ingram, 1978), which is restricted to boulder-pile habitat 750 km to the south in mainland north-east Queensland but is readily distinguished from that species morphologically and genetically.

Reptilia, Nactus, new species, Torres Strait, Queensland, saxicoline, boulder-field

Holotype of Nactus simakal sp. nov. (QM J97603) in life (A) and preserved (B).

Photos: Conrad Hoskin.

Nactus simakal sp. nov. in life.
 (A–C) Adults; (D) sub-adult.

Photos: (A, D) Alexander Davies; (B, C) Conrad Hoskin

Nactus simakal sp. nov. 

Dauan Island Gecko

Diagnosis. A slender, elongate Nactus gecko with strongly banded pattern and prominently keeled subcaudal scales.

 

Etymology. The species name ‘simakal’ is in reference to Simakal Pad, the local language name for Mt Cornwallis (the mountain that dominates Dauan Island). The local language name was provided by Laurie Elisala, Torenzo Elisala, Abi Mooka, Tenny Elisala, and Thomas Mooka.

Similarity in general appearance between Nactus simakal sp. nov. (A) and N.galgajuga.

Photos: (A) Conrad Hoskin; (B) Scott Macor.

 

Conrad J. Hoskin, Alexander Davies and Kieran Aland. 2024. A New Species of Nactus Gecko from Boulder-pile Habitat on Dauan Island, Torres Strait, Australia.  Zootaxa. 5497(4); 577-590. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5497.4.7