[Cnidaria • 2026] Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum • A New Species of Hemicorallium (Anthozoa: Octocorallia: Coralliidae), along with a revised identification key to species of the genus

Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum

Koido, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1277.184620 

 

Abstract

A new precious coral species, Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum sp. nov. (Scleralcyonacea, Coralliidae), retrieved from a depth of 550 m in Kochi Prefecture, Japan, is described, and an updated identification key for the genus Hemicorallium is provided. The new species is confirmed as belonging to the genus Hemicorallium based on the presence of nonretractile but contractile autozooids with an ovate-cylindrical shape and sclerites comprising elongated rods, 6–8-radiates and double clubs, with elongated rods present exclusively in the tentacles. Moreover, the species is distinct from all its congeners in that it has orange coenenchyme and a pink axis, with autozooids distributed only on the front side of the branch, forming clusters at the branch tips. These morphological features differ from those of all previously described species of Hemicorallium, and molecular analysis of mitochondrial sequences (16S, ND1, ND2, ND3, ND6, COI, MSH, and IGR1) further corroborates the validity of this new species. This is the first report of Hemicorallium off the coast of Kochi Prefecture, Japan.

Key words: Cnidaria, deep-sea corals, precious coral, Scleralcyonacea, Western Pacific

 

Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum sp. nov. (Holotype: KBF-OA-00436).
 A. ‘‘Front’’ and ‘‘back’’ of colony; B. Branch, showing autozooid (AZ); C. Exposed axis with the coenenchyme removed; D, E. Surface detail of branch, showing autozooid (AZ), siphonozooid (SZ), burrows (Bu), cluster of autozooids (CL), warts on coenenchyme surface (W), and commensal polychaete (Po).

 Scale bars: 50 mm (A); 10 mm (B–E).

Class Octocorallia Haeckel, 1866

Order Scleralcyonacea McFadden, van Ofwegen & Quattrini, 2022

Family Coralliidae Lamouroux, 1812

Genus Hemicorallium Gray, 1867

Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum sp. nov. 

 New Japanese name. Kinmokusei-mizo-sango.

Diagnosis. The colony branches in one plane, and anastomoses are present only where broken branches come into contact with other branches. Autozooids are contracted but not retracted, and they are distributed only on one side of the colony. Spacing is almost absent on the twigs, and clusters are formed at the tips. The axis has no pits beneath the autozooids and is pale pink to pink in colour. Sclerites are predominantly radiate, and double clubs are rare. Warty rods are present only in the tentacles.

 

Tatsuki Koido. 2026. A New Species of Hemicorallium (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Coralliidae), along with a revised identification key to species of the genus. ZooKeys. 1277: 339-354.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1277.184620 [20 Apr 2026]

[Botany • 2022] Vaccinium sulawesiense (Ericaceae: Vaccinieae) • Vaccinium in Sulawesi: A New Species and A List of known Taxa

 

Vaccinium sulawesiense Mustaqim & P.W.Fritsch, 

in Mustaqim, Fritsch, Ahmad, Lakiu, Pitopang et Ardi, 2022.

DOI: 10.7751/telopea15774 

Researchgate.net/publication/363672464

Abstract

Vaccinium sulawesiense Mustaqim & P.W.Fritsch, a newly discovered endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, is described. This species is similar to V. simulans Sleumer but differs in having an acuminate leaf apex, larger floral organs, and an absence of trichomes in the upper half of the inner surface of corolla and disk. This species is known from the two specimens, one from a mid-montane rain forest in Mamasa Regency, Sulawesi Barat Province and the another from Poso Regency, Sulawesi Tengah Province. An updated list of the 17 known Vaccinium species in Sulawesi is also provided.

Keywords: endemic, Ericales, shrub, Sulawesi, taxonomy

Morphology of Vaccinium sulawesiense Mustaqim & P.W.Fritsch:
A. Living plant. B. Branchlets with leaves and inflorescences. C. Inflorescence. D. Flowers.

 Scale bar: B–D = 10 mm. 

Photographs: A–C by Wendy A. Mustaqim, All images from W.H. Ardi et al. 583.

  

Wendy A. Mustaqim, Peter W Fritsch, Roland P.P. Ahmad, Fedrik S. Lakiu, Ramadanil Pitopang and Wisnu H. Ardi. 2022. Vaccinium (Ericaceae) in Sulawesi: A New Species and A List of known Taxa. Telopea. 25; 301–307. DOI: 10.7751/telopea15774 

Researchgate.net/publication/363672464_Vaccinium_Ericaceae_in_Sulawesi

[Crustacea • 2025] Umalia modesta • A New Species of Frog Crab Genus Umalia Guinot, 1993 (Brachyura: Raninidae) from the South China Sea, with A Key to Species in the Genus

 

Umalia modesta

Ng, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.18353/crustacea.54.0_53

Abstract 

A new species of raninid frog crab, Umalia modesta n. sp., is described from the northern part of the South China Sea, near Tungsha Islands. The species is morphologically most similar to U. chinensis (Chen & Sun, 2002) (from southern China) and U. tenuiocellus (Davie & Short, 1989) (from Australia) but can easily be distinguished from them by its carapace form, well developed cornea, and structures of the rostrum, thoracic sternum, third maxilliped and ambulatory legs.  

Key words: Tungsha Islands, Taiwan, Raninoidea, new species, comparative taxonomy, genus key

Umalia modesta n. sp., holotype female (11.0×14.0 mm) (ZRC 2024.0500), South China Sea.
A, overall dorsal view; B, frontal half of carapace (dorsal view); C, frontal view of cephalothorax; D, left anterolateral view of cephalothorax; E, third maxillipeds.

Umalia modesta n. sp., male, station CP4115,
southwest of Tungsha Island, South China Sea [specimen not examined]

[Photograph: T.-Y. Chan].

Superfamily Raninoidea De Haan, 1839 

Family Raninidae De Haan, 1839 

Subfamily Notopodinae Serène & Umali, 1972 

Umalia Guinot, 1993

Umalia modesta, new species 

Diagnosis: Carapace shape trapezoidal, anterior part much wider than posterior part, lateral margins almost straight, subparallel; carapace width more than 0.7 total length; fronto-orbital distance less than half width of carapace; anterior ...

Etymology: From the Latin “modesta” for unassuming, alluding to the simple characters of the species

Peter K. L. Ng. 2025. On A New Species of Frog Crab, Umalia modesta n. sp. (Brachyura: Raninidae) from the South China Sea, with A Key to Species in the Genus. Crustacean Research. 54; 53-61. DOI: doi.org/10.18353/crustacea.54.0_53 [September 27, 2025]

[Entomology • 2026] Calicnemia arunachala, Ca. naga, Ca. mimumkoa, Coeliccia magna, ... • Six New Species of Calicnemia Strand, 1926 and One New Species of Coeliccia Kirby, 1890 (Odonata: Zygoptera: Platycnemididae) from northeastern India

 Calicnemia arunachala  &  C. mimumkoa 

Sawant, Joshi & Kunte, 

in Sawant, Joshi, Pawar, Khan, Nawge et Kunte, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.4.1 

Researchgate.net/publication/401210423  

 facebook.com/DattaprasadSAWANT1

 

Abstract

We erect six new species of the genus Calicnemia Strand, 1926, namely, Ca. ardena sp. nov., Ca. arunachala sp. nov., Ca. flavovittata sp. nov., Ca. mimumkoa sp. nov., Ca. naga sp. nov. and Ca. rubromacula sp. nov.; and one new species of Coeliccia Kirby, 1890, Co. magna sp. nov., from northeastern India. The new Calicnemia spp. are distinguished based on the structure of the genital ligula, colouration patterns of the thorax and abdomen, and the shape of caudal appendages. Based on the morphology of the genital ligula, we propose a third species group within Calicnemia, in addition to the two previously recognised species groups. This new species group accommodates Ca. ardena sp. nov. and Ca. rubromacula sp. nov., which possess short, bifurcated genital filaments that do not align with the diagnostic characteristics of the existing species groups. Additionally, Ca. erythromelas (Selys, 1891) previously reported from India is shown to be misidentified, and the Indian material is identified as Ca. naga sp. nov. Updated identification keys for all known Calicnemia males are provided, along with detailed illustrations of diagnostic features. Coeliccia magna sp. nov., erected from Arunachal Pradesh, is distinguished from congeners by its larger body size, complete blue antehumeral stripes, and distinct male and female morphological features. We further provide lateral thoracic illustrations of Coeliccia spp.

Odonata, Arunachal Pradesh, identification key, new species descriptions, Siang, taxonomy

 Calicnemia ardena sp. nov., Ca. arunachala sp. nov., 

Ca. flavovittata sp. nov., Ca. mimumkoa sp. nov., 

Ca. naga sp. nov., Ca. rubromacula sp. nov. 

Coeliccia magna sp. nov. 

Dattaprasad SAWANT, SHANTANU JOSHI, UJWALA PAWAR, FAHIM KHAN, VIRAJ NAWGE and KRUSHNAMEGH KUNTE. 2026. Six New Species of Calicnemia Strand, 1926 and One New Species of Coeliccia Kirby, 1890 (Odonata: Zygoptera: Platycnemididae) from northeastern India.  Zootaxa. 5760(4); 401-449. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5760.4.1 [2026-02-25]

 Researchgate.net/publication/401210423_Six_new_species_of_Calicnemia_et_Coeliccia_from_northeastern_India

  facebook.com/DattaprasadSAWANT1/posts/25960702353552123

[Entomology • 2026] Zhangius rhymbon & Z. lophos • A New nanophyine Genus, Zhangius gen. nov., with descriptions of Two New Species (Coleoptera: Brentidae: Nanophyinae) from China and Thailand

Zhangius rhymbon  

Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1273.175356

Abstract

A new nanophyine genus, Zhangius Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, gen. nov., with two new species Zhangius rhymbon Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov. (type species) and Zhangius lophos Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov., are described. The diagnostic characters of the new genus and species are provided. Keys to the male and female of the species and host data are presented.

Key words: Chiang Mai, identification key, Lyalia, new genus, Shiva, taxonomy, weevils, Yunnan

Zhangius rhymbon Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov.
1. Male; 2. Female; 3. Mating; 4. Host plant, Lagerstroemia tomentosa C. Presl, 1844, leaves and capsule; 5. Crown collecting by long-handle tropical net.

Zhangius Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, gen. nov. 

 Zhangius rhymbon Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov.  

 Zhangius lophos Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov. 

 Zhiliang Wang, Miguel A. Alonso-Zarazaga. 2026. A New nanophyine Genus, Zhangius gen. nov., with descriptions of Two New Species (Coleoptera, Brentidae, Nanophyinae) from China and Thailand. ZooKeys. 1273: 205-220. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1273.175356 [18 Mar. 2026] 

[Entomology • 2026] Andes luchunensis, A. scalpratus, ... • Four New Species of the Planthopper Genus Andes (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cixiidae) from China, with an updated key to species

 

Andes luchunensis Lv, Zhi & Chen,  

in Lv, Zhi, Yang, Long, Chang, Zhang et Chen, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/dez.73.173015

 

Abstract

Four new species of the genus Andes Stål, 1866 (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae, Cixiinae, Andini) are described from China: A. cuneatus Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., A. luchunensis Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., A. scalpratus Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. from Yunnan Province, and A. orbiculatus Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. from Fujian Province. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations including female terminalia, and diagnostic comparisons are provided for all new species, with a particular emphasis on the male genital structures that distinguish them from congeners. An updated identification key to all known Chinese species of Andes is also presented.

Key Words: Cixiids, Delphacoidea, identification key, Oriental region, planthoppers, taxonomy

Andes luchunensis Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., male.
A. Habitus, dorsal view; B. Habitus, lateral view; C. Head and thorax, dorsal view; D. Frons, ventral view; E. Forewing; F. Genitalia, lateral view; G. Pygofer and gonostyli, ventral view; H. Anal segment, dorsal view; I. Gonostyli, lateral view; J. Aedeagus, right side; K. Aedeagus, left side; L. Aedeagus, dorsal view; M. Aedeagus, ventral view. Scale bars: 0.5 mm (A–M).

 Andes cuneatus Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., 

A. luchunensis Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., 

A. scalpratus Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov.

 A. orbiculatus Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. 

Adult of Andes luchunensis Lv, Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. resting on the leaf of fern. 4 August 2023, Huanglianshan National Nature Reserve, Lüchun County, Yunnan Province, photographed by Feng-E Li.

Sha-Sha Lv, Yan Zhi, Lin Yang, Jian-Kun Long, Zhi-Min Chang, Yu-Bo Zhang and Xiang-Sheng Chen. 2026. Four New Species of the Planthopper Genus Andes (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Cixiidae) from China, with an updated key to species. Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift. 73(1): 15-29. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/dez.73.173015 [03 Feb 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Microvelia amphitrite • New Species and New Distributional Records of the Genus Microvelia Westwood (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Veliidae) from the Japanese Ogasawara Islands, with an Illustrated Key to Ogasawaran Species

Microvelia amphitrite  Matsushima & Watanabe, 

in Matsushima, Hisasue et Watanabe. 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/jihs.3.1.2  

 Researchgate.net/publication/400255782 

  x.com/hydrotusk

 

Abstract

Microvelia (Pacificovelia) amphitrite new species is described from the Japanese Ogasawara Islands. In addition, some specimens identified as M. douglasi Scott, 1874 and previously reported by different authors from the Ogasawara Islands were examined and recognized as misidentifications actually belonging to M. yoshitomii Watanabe, 2023 and the new species herein described. These results indicate that M. douglasi is not distributed in the Ogasawara Islands. In addition, M. yoshitomii is herein reported for the first time from nine islands in the archipelago. An illustrated key to Ogasawaran Microveliinae species is provided. Field surveys revealed that two species of Microvelia in the Ogasawara Islands prey on arthropods across several taxa, more than half of which are alien species.

broad-shouldered water striders, Gerromorpha, Microveliinae, oceanic islands, semiaquatic bugs, small water striders, taxonomy

Habitus of Microvelia amphitrite new species paratypes.
 Apterous male and Apterous female.

Microvelia (Pacificovelia) amphitrite Matsushima and Watanabe, sp. nov. 

Etymology. The species epithet amphitrite derives from the Greek mythological queen of the sea, “Amphitrite”,who is said to have been crossed the sea on dolphins. This name reflects both the geographical background of thisnew species, which has established on the oceanic islands, and the dolphin-like shape of the male parameres. 

Predation events by Microvelia spp.
Predation by Microvelia amphitrite new species: 32, springtail (Entomobryidae). 33, Technomyrmex brunneus (Formicidae). 34, Apis mellifera (Apidae).
Predation by M. yoshitomii: 35, springtail (Sminthuridae). 36, Heteropsylla cubana (Psyllidae). 37, Pheidole parva s. l. (Formicidae).

RYOSUKE MATSUSHIMA, YU HISASUE and KOHEI WATANABE. 2026. New Species and New Distributional Records of the Genus Microvelia Westwood (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Veliidae) from the Japanese Ogasawara Islands, with an Illustrated Key to Ogasawaran Species. J. Int. Heteropterists’ Soc. 3(1); DOI: doi.org/10.11646/jihs.3.1.2 [2026-01-30] 

 Researchgate.net/publication/400255782_New_species_of_Microvelia_from_the_Japanese_Ogasawara_Islands

  x.com/hydrotusk/status/2017206587048575355

[Botany • 2025] Keetia magassoubiana (Rubiaceae: Vanguerieae) • A threatened evergreen forest Climber and an updated key to Keetia in West Africa

Keetia magassoubiana Cheek, 

 

in Cheek, Yasuda, Jongkind et Bowden-Pickstock, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-024-10234-z

Summary

Keetia magassoubiana Cheek, an evergreen rainforest climber, is described and illustrated from the Republic of Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Ivory Coast. Previously indicated as being close to, but different from, K. tenuiflora (Hiern) Bridson, it differs in the glossy, black, glabrous, epidermis of the distal stem internodes; the first internode rarely with very sparse, red adpressed hairs (vs epidermis pale white-brown, with dense, pale yellow, spreading hairs); abaxial leaf surfaces with domed domatia with a central aperture (vs domatia absent or obscure); secondary stem leaf bases acute (vs obtuse to truncate); bracts forming a laciniate sheath on the distal peduncle (vs two opposite triangular bracts) and the pyrene surface honeycombed with pits (vs entire). The species was earlier included within Canthium multiflorum (Schum. & Thonn.) Hiern, now K. multiflora (Schum. & Thonn.) Bridson, in the Flora of West Tropical Africa, second edition. An updated key is presented to the 16 species of the genus from West Africa. Keetia magassoubiana is provisionally assessed using the IUCN standard as Endangered [EN B1ab(iii)] due to only five of the recorded 14 locations having extant forest habitat, and because of ongoing threats of habitat clearance, mainly for agriculture but also for mining.

Key Words: Conservation, extinction, liana

Keetia magassoubiana Cheek sp. nov.

Recognition. Keetia magassoubiana Cheek sp. nov. is close to but differs from K. tenuiflora in the glossy, black, glabrous epidermis of the distal stem internodes, rarely with very sparse red hairs (vs epidermis pale white-brown, densely pale yellow hairy in K. tenuiflora), abaxial leaf surface with domatia domed, with a central aperture (vs domatia absent or obscure), the secondary stem leaf bases acute (vs obtuse to truncate), the bracts forming a laciniate sheath on the distal peduncle (vs two opposite triangular bracts) and the pyrene surface honeycombed with pits (vs smooth).

Etymology. Named for Dr Sekou Magassouba, Director-General of the National Herbarium of Guinea (HNG) in the University of Gamal Abdel Nasser – Conakry, Republic of Guinea. Under his careful, tireless and diligent administration, HNG has increased greatly in its capacity to devise and manage projects, attract grants, to train students, including now at doctorate level for the first time and to develop publication of research and publicise the conservation of the threatened plant species and habitats of his country.

Martin Cheek, Shigeo Yasuda, Carel C. H. Jongkind and Joel Bowden-Pickstock. 2025. Keetia magassoubiana sp. nov. (Rubiaceae - Vanguerieae), a threatened evergreen forest climber and an updated key to Keetia in West Africa. Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-024-10234-z

[Arachnida • 2024] Jingneta qishan, Leptonetela jingde, ... • Four New Species of leptonetid Spiders (Araneae: Leptonetidae) from Anhui Province, China

Jingneta qishan Tong,

in Li, Chen et Tong, 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1218.136555 

Abstract

Four new species of leptonetid spiders from Anhui Province, China are recognized: Jingneta qishan Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀), Jingneta wukuishan Tong, sp. nov. (♂), Leptonetela jingde Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Rhyssoleptoneta lishan Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀). An identification key to leptonetid spiders from Anhui is provided.

Key words: Asia, biodiversity, identification key, Jingneta, Leptonetela, new taxa, Rhyssoleptoneta, taxonomy

Jingneta qishan sp. nov.,

male, habitus, dorsal view

C, D left palp, prolateral and retrolateral views. 

Scale bars: 0.4 mm (A, B); 0.3 mm (C, D).

 female, habitus, dorsal view

 C, D genitalia, ventral and dorsal views. 

 sc = scape. 

Scale bars: 0.4 mm (A, B); 0.1 mm (C, D).

 Shuhui Li, Qiang Chen and Yanfeng Tong. 2024. Four New Species of leptonetid Spiders (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from Anhui Province, China. ZooKeys. 1218: 99-119. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1218.136555 

[Entomology • 2025] Omoplax hisasuei, O. inugusu & O. hisasuei • An Illustrated Key to the Lace Bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) from “Oriental Galapagos” the Ogasawara Islands, Japan, with Descriptions of Three New Species of the endemic Genus Omoplax Horváth, 1912

A. Omoplax inugusu sp. nov., male; B. O. inugusu sp. nov., female; C. O. kobugashi sp. nov., male; D. O. kobugashi sp. nov., female; E. O. kobugashi sp. nov., fifth instar nymph; F. O. kobugashi sp. nov., fourth instar nymph; G. O. majorcarinae, male; H. O. majorcarinae, female; I. O. hisasuei sp. nov., male.
  
E. Neolitsea sericea var. aurata Hahajima Island, damaged by O. hisasuei sp. nov.; F. M. boninensis from Hahajima Island, damaged by O. inugusu sp. nov.; H. M. kobu from Chichijima Island, damaged by O. kobugashi sp. nov.

Souma, 2025

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1250.160064

Abstract

The lace bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Tingidae) from the Ogasawara Islands, Japan, which are known as “Oriental Galapagos”, are taxonomically revised. The following eight species belonging to the two endemic genera, Acanthomoplax Souma & Kamitani, 2021 (Tinginae, Tingini) or Omoplax Horváth, 1912 (Tinginae, Tingini) are recognized from the islands: A. tomokunii Souma & Kamitani, 2021, O. desecta (Horváth, 1912), O. hisasuei sp. nov., O. inugusu sp. nov., O. karubei Souma, 2022, O. kobugashi sp. nov., O. majorcarinae Guilbert, 2001, and O. mukojimensis Souma, 2022. In previous studies published in the 2020s, O. inugusu sp. nov. and O. kobugashi sp. nov. were misidentified as O. majorcarinae, while O. majorcarinae, re-diagnosed in the present study, was confused with O. desecta. Host plants for seven of the eight species, excluding O. mukojimensis, were revealed based on field and captive observations. Five of these seven species—A. tomokunii, O. hisasuei sp. nov., O. inugusu sp. nov., O. kobugashi sp. nov., and O. majorcarinae—feed on evergreen lauraceous trees. An illustrated key is also provided to identify all eight lace bug species from the Ogasawara Islands. Moreover, differences in host plants and distribution ranges of the eight endemic species are also discussed. Future research directions necessary for the conservation of endemic lace bugs are proposed.

Key words: Allopatric distribution, East Asia, endemic taxa, host plant, Lauraceae, phytophagous insect, oceanic island, Oceanian Region

Living individuals of three tingid species endemic to the Ogasawara Islands, Japan.
A. Omoplax inugusu sp. nov., male; B. O. inugusu sp. nov., female; C. O. kobugashi sp. nov., male;
D. O. kobugashi sp. nov., female; E. O. kobugashi sp. nov., fifth instar nymph; F. O. kobugashi sp. nov., fourth instar nymph;
G. O. majorcarinae, male; H. O. majorcarinae, female; I. O. majorcarinae, fifth instar nymph.

Host plants of seven tingid species endemic to the Ogasawara Islands, Japan.
A. Machilus kobu from Ototojima Island, damaged by Acanthomoplax tomokunii; B. M. thunbergii planted in northern Honshu, damaged by A. tomokunii in captivity; C. Rhaphiolepis indica var. tashiroi from Chichijima Island, damaged by Omoplax desecta;
D. Calophyllum inophyllum from Chichijima Island, damaged by O. desecta; E. Neolitsea sericea var. aurata Hahajima Island, damaged by O. hisasuei sp. nov.; F. M. boninensis from Hahajima Island, damaged by O. inugusu sp. nov.;
 G. R. indica var. tashiroi from Mukojima Island, damaged by O. karubei (photographs taken by Jinhyeong Park); H. M. kobu from Chichijima Island, damaged by O. kobugashi sp. nov.; I. N. sericea var. aurata Ototojima Island, damaged by O. majorcarinae.

 Jun Souma. 2025. An Illustrated Key to the Lace Bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Tingidae) from “Oriental Galapagos” (the Ogasawara Islands, Japan), with Descriptions of Three New Species of the endemic Genus Omoplax Horváth, 1912. ZooKeys. 1250: 243-284. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1250.160064

[Botany • 2024] Capurodendron ambanizanense, C. vulcanicola, ... • A Phylogenomic Reconstruction of the Endangered Malagasy Tree Genus Capurodendron (Sapotaceae) with Nine New Species and an Identification Key

[A-C] Capurodendron christeae Boluda & L. Gaut., 

[E-G] Capurodendron sommerae Boluda, Naciri & L. Gaut., 

Capurodendron vulcanicola Boluda & L. Gaut.,  

in Boluda, Naciri et Gautier, 2024.

DOI: 10.1093/botlinnean/boad073 

 x.com/BotJLinnSoc

Photographs by C. G. Boluda; P. Ranirison; S. D. Ramandimbimanana. 

Drawings: G. Loza

Abstract

Capurodendron is the second largest endemic genus of vascular plants in Madagascar. It comprises mainly trees that are frequently logged for their valued wood. This, together with deforestation, led to 76% of the known species being Endangered or Critically Endangered. However, a confident species identification is often not possible with the current available literature and many morphotypes do not fit any described taxa, which has impeded the implementation of conservation measures. We performed a phylogenomic revision studying c. 900 collections morphologically, and sequencing 638 nuclear genetic markers of 180 representative specimens up to 90 years old, including all the described species and some undescribed morphotypes. Our results show that Capurodendron may contain up to 21 undescribed species in addition to the 35 already known. Nine of these are confirmed as valid species supported by genetic, morphological, and ecological data, and we describe them here (Capurodendron ainae, C. ambanizanense, C. antilahimenae, C. christeae, C. nataliae, C. ratovosonii, C. razakamalalae, C. sommerae, and C. vulcanicola). For the remaining 12 candidate new species, three are genetically analysed but require more sampling, and nine are only supported by morphological and ecological data so far, and therefore require genetic analyses to confirm their validity. For practical purposes and to assist with conservation assessments we provide an identification key, based mainly on vegetative characters, that also include the undescribed species.

conservation assessments, endangered species, gene capture, Madagascar, precious timbers, target capture

Capurodendron ainae (A--B, Gautier et al. 7035; C, Randriarisoa 75). A, Mature bark; B, leaves; C, pre- and post-anthesis flowers.
Capurodendron ambanizanense (Gautier et al. 5520): D, slashed trunk.
  Capurodendron nataliae (Randrianaivo & Boluda 3175): E, slashed trunk; F, branch with leaves highlighting the plagiotropic arrangement; G, adaxial side of leaves; and H, abaxial side of leaves.

Photographs C. G. Boluda (A--B, E--H); A. Randriarisoa (C); L. Gautier (D).

Capurodendron christeae (A--C, Gautier7051; D; Ranirison & Nusbaumer 1029 [both collections from the same individual]). A, Slashed trunk; B, adaxial side of the leaves; C, abaxial side of a leaf; D, flower.
Capurodendron sommerae (Ramandimbimanana & Randimbiarison 260): E, slashed trunk; F, branch with fruits; and G, fruit, post-anthesis calyx, and leaves.

Photographs C. G. Boluda (A--C); P. Ranirison (D); S. D. Ramandimbimanana (E--G). 

Capurodendron vulcanicola Boluda & L. Gaut. (Ramandimbimanana 388). A, Branch with fruit; and B, fruit.

 

Carlos G. Boluda, Yamama Naciri and Laurent Gautier. 2024. A Phylogenomic Reconstruction of the Endangered Malagasy Tree Genus Capurodendron (Sapotaceae) with Nine New Species and an Identification Key. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 205(2); 85–115, DOI: 10.1093/botlinnean/boad073

  x.com/BotJLinnSoc/status/1797961992138879118

[Entomology • 2024] Epelaspis lulo, E. wagneri, ... • Revisiting the Darwin Wasp Genus Epelaspis Townes, 1970 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Phygadeuontinae): Five New Species, New Records and A Key to Neotropical Species

Epelaspis wagneri Lima & Fernandes,

in Lima, Pádua, Araujo, Mazariegos et Fernandes, 2024.

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5468.1.2 

x.com/carlosmapalina

  

Abstract

The Darwin wasp genus Epelaspis Townes, 1970 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Phygadeuontinae) is studied in some countries of South America. We recorded the genus for the first time in Colombia, and five new species are described: Epelaspis boteroi Lima & Fernandes, sp. nov., Epelaspis constantinoi Lima & Fernandes, sp. nov., Epelaspis lulo Lima & Fernandes, sp. nov., Epelaspis tavoi Lima & Fernandes, sp. nov., and Epelaspis wagneri Lima & Fernandes, sp. nov.. Furthermore, E. anorus Townes, 1970 is newly documented for Brazil, while the geographic ranges of E. renatoi Graf & Kumagai, 1996 and E. ketiae Graf & Kumagai, 1996 are extended within the country. Digital images, maps, and a key to Neotropical Epelaspis species are provided.

Hymenoptera, Andean Region, Andean Cloud Forest, Brazil, biodiversity, Colombia, parasitoid wasps

Adriane G. M. Lima, Diego G. Pádua, Rodrigo O. Araujo, Luis A. Mazariegos, Daniell R. R. Fernandes. 2024. Revisiting the Darwin Wasp Genus Epelaspis Townes, 1970 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Phygadeuontinae): Five New Species, New Records and A Key to Neotropical Species.  Zootaxa. 5468(1); 52-74. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5468.1.2

 x.com/carlosmapalina/status/1802456435722252425

[Herpetology • 2024] Rhinophis martin & R. dinarzardae • Two New Species of the Shieldtail Snake Genus Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 (Serpentes: Uropeltidae), from the Rakwana and the Knuckles Massifs of Sri Lanka

Rhinophis martin

Gower, Sampaio, Vidanapathirana & Wickramasinghe, 2024

 

DOI:  10.11646/zootaxa.5458.3.2 

  facebook.com/MendisWickramasinghe9

 

Abstract

Two new species of the uropeltid snake genus Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 are described from Sri Lanka. Rhinophis martin sp. nov. is described from 11 type specimens from the Rakwana Massif, and another 22 specimens from the same region are referred to this new species. Rhinophis dinarzardae sp. nov. is described from eight type specimens from the Knuckles Massif, and another 64 specimens from the Knuckles and adjacent hills are referred to this new species. Rhinophis martin sp. nov. has apparently not been reported previously under any scientific name, but is distinct in scalation, colour pattern and DNA. Rhinophis dinarzardae sp. nov. has long-been confused with the superficially similar R. philippinus, from which it differs by having more ventral scales, by occurring in the northern part of the Knuckles Massif and adjacent hills to the West rather than in the Central Highlands upland region (and possibly areas to the South and West) of Sri Lanka, and in DNA sequence data. The new descriptions take the inventory of currently recognised, named uropeltid species in Sri Lanka to 20, all members of the genus Rhinophis.

 Reptilia, Herpetology, new species, Rhinophis philippinus, systematics, taxonomy.

David J. Gower, Filipa L. Sampaio, Dulan Ranga Vidanapathirana and L. J. Mendis Wickramasinghe. 2024. Two New Species of the Shieldtail Snake Genus Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 (Serpentes: Uropeltidae), from the Rakwana and the Knuckles Massifs of Sri Lanka.  Zootaxa. 458(3); 332-360. DOI:  10.11646/zootaxa.5458.3.2  

 facebook.com/MendisWickramasinghe9/posts/10229470461478643

[Arachnida • 2023] Leiurus nigellus • A New remarkable Species of Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) from Saudi Arabia

Leiurus nigellus Abu Afifeh, Aloufi & Al-Saraireh, 

in Afifeh, Aloufi, Al-Saraireh, Badry, Al-Qahtni et Amr, 2023.

DOI: 10.37828/em.2023.69.9 

 Researchgate.net/publication/375743878

 Abstract

A new remarkable buthid scorpion, Leiurus nigellus sp. nov., was discovered in Al Ula Governorate, north of Al Madinah Al Monawwarah Province, Saudi Arabia. The new species is described, fully illustrated, and compared with other species of the genus Leiurus reported from the Arabian Peninsula. Notes on its habitats are provided.

 Habitus of Leiurus nigellus sp. nov., male paratype and female holotype.
A. male in dorsal view. B. male in ventral view.
C. female in dorsal view. D. female in ventral view.

Scale bar = 20 mm.

Leiurus nigellus sp. nov. Abu Afifeh, Aloufi & Al-Saraireh

Leiurus nigellus sp. nov., female paratype from Al Buriakah, Al Ula governorate, Saudi Arabia.

 

Bassam Abu Afifeh, Abdulhadi Aloufi, Mohammad Al-Saraireh, Ahmed Badry, Abdulmani H. Al-Qahtni and Zuhair S. Amr. 2023. A New remarkable Species of Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828 from Saudi Arabia (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Ecologica Montenegrina. 69; 91-106. DOI: 10.37828/em.2023.69.9

  Researchgate.net/publication/375743878_A_new_species_of_Leiurus_from_SaudiArabia