[Mollusca • 2026] Georissa meghalayaensis & Acmella bensoni • New Species of Georissa (Gastropoda: Hydrocenidae) and Acmella (Gastropoda: Assimineidae), with new records of Georissa from Northeast India

 

Georissa meghalayaensis sp. nov. and
Acmella bensoni sp. nov. 

 Das & Aravind, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1060.3284 

 x.com/atree_org

Abstract

The present study describes one new species each of Georissa and Acmella from Northeast India. Georissa meghalayaensis sp. nov. and Acmella bensoni sp. nov. are described from Krem Puri, Meghalaya. In addition, Georissa sp. was newly recorded from a soil-leaf litter sample collected at the Sadu Chiru waterfall area in Manipur, and Georissa sarrita was newly recorded from Tuipui in Mizoram. All species were identified based on morphological features, with shell sculpture and suture being the primary distinguishing characters. Notably, all the species from Meghalaya were found inside caves, except for Georissa meghalayaensis (Krem Puri), which was found at the edge of the cave entrance on a wet, moss-covered rocky wall. Further studies are required to confirm the true cavernicolous nature of these microsnails.

Keywords: biodiversity hotspot, cave biodiversity, conchology, conservation, endemics

Georissa meghalayaensis sp. nov. 

Acmella bensoni sp. nov. 

Nipu Kumar Das and Neelavar Ananthram Aravind. 2026. New Species of Georissa (Gastropoda: Hydrocenidae) and Acmella (Gastropoda: Assimineidae), with new records of Georissa from Northeast India.  European Journal of Taxonomy, 1060(1); 1–27. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1060.3284 [2026-05-27] 

 x.com/atree_org/status/2065383012116627609

[Herpetology • 2026] Trachischium lalremsangai • A New Species of Fossorial Snake of the Genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma Biodiversity Hotspot

Trachischium lalremsangai 

Bhardwaj, Bal, Tluanga & Mirza, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e187919  

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Abstract

A new species of fossorial natricine snake, Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov., is described from the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The holotype was collected from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, near the India–Myanmar border, while the paratype originated from Haka Township, Chin State, Myanmar. Based on morphological and molecular data, the new species is related to T. reticulata (Blyth); however, it can be diagnosed from members of the genus Trachischium by possessing 13 dorsal scale rows, two postoculars, one anterior temporal scale, and two posterior temporal scales, in addition to distinctive colouration and other scalation details. The discovery of several new snake species within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot underscores the need for increased research efforts and funding dedicated to this region in the near future.

Key Words: Blythia, Colubridae, Myanmar, Natricinae, northeast India, phylogeny, taxonomy

Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov. holotype male MZMU 3757 in situ.

Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov.

Diagnosis. A large-sized member of the genus reaching SVL of 351–432 mm. Dorsal scales smooth and iridescent, arranged in 13 rows throughout the body. Supralabials 5–6, 3rd and 4th in contact with orbit. Paired prefrontals; a pair of postoculars. Temporals 1+2. Ventrals 135 (+3–4 preventrals) and 28–29 subcaudals paired. Dorsum brown and ventrally, anterior one quarter of the snake is creamish white, while the rest is a shade of brown that has sparse white speckles.

Etymology. The specific epithet is a patronym honouring Prof. Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga of Mizoram University for his contributions to herpetology in Northeast India, his guidance to numerous students, and his facilitation of research throughout the region and the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

 Virender K. Bhardwaj, Amit K. Bal, Chhangte L. Tluanga and Zeeshan A. Mirza. 2026. A New Species of Fossorial Snake of the Genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma Biodiversity Hotspot. Herpetozoa. 39: 203-215. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e187919 [19 May 2026]

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[Herpetology • 2026] Cyrtodactylus jayadityai • A New micro-endemic Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from the lowlands of Northeast India, with additional morphological notes on Cyrtodactylus khasiensis Jerdon, 1870 based on topotypical specimens from Meghalaya, India

 

Cyrtodactylus jayadityai 

Bohra, Deb, Thongni,  Bhattacharjee, Biakzuala, Lalremsanga, Swargiary & Roy, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3255

Abstract

We provide additional morphological notes on Cyrtodactylus khasiensis Jerdon, 1870 sensu stricto based on topotypical specimens from Meghalaya, northeast India, thereby clarifying its diagnostic morphological traits and extending its distribution further westwards based on molecular data. In addition, based on an integrative systematic approach, we describe a new species of bent-toed gecko namely Cyrtodactylus jayadityai sp. nov. from the lowlands of North Tripura, northeast India. Genetically, the new species is a member of the ‘C. khasiensis’ group and is a strongly supported sister to C. tripuraensis Agarwal, Mahony, Giri, Chaitanya & Bauer, 2018 from which it differs by a pairwise genetic distance of 4.7–5.2% in the mitochondrial ND2 gene. The investigation of morphological characters such as the precloacal-femoral pores in males and pre-cloacal pits in females further supports the distinctiveness of the new species and morphologically differentiates it from its congeners. This increases the number of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 in northeast India to 31 species, underscoring the importance of the region as a hotspot for herpetofaunal research and conservation. At present, based on the current population status and distribution, we propose that the new species should be considered as Data Deficient (DD) under the IUCN Red List criteria.

Keywords: systematics, mitochondrial gene, ND2, lizard, sister species

Cyrtodactylus jayadityai sp. nov.

Sanath Chandra Bohra, Arnab Deb, Goldenstar Thongni, Rupankar Bhattacharjee, Lal Biakzuala, Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga, Pranjal Swargiary and Rita Roy. 2026. A New micro-endemic Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from the lowlands of Northeast India, with additional morphological notes on Cyrtodactylus khasiensis Jerdon, 1870 based on topotypical specimens from Meghalaya, India. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1048(1); 265–303. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3255  [2026-04-14]

 

[Botany • 2026] Ophiorrhiza jomyi (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from the Vagamon Hills, southern Western Ghats, India

 

Ophiorrhiza jomyi Ebin, Sreehari & Joby,  

in Ebin, Sreehari et Joby, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05085 

Abstract

A new species of Ophiorrhiza (Rubiaceae)is identified and described from the Vagamon hills of Kerala, Western Ghats, India. The new species is similar to Ophiorrhiza eriantha Wight and Ophiorrhiza meenachilarensis Robi and Balan, but differs in having densely hirsute hairs on young stem, petiole and peduncle; patent hirsute hairs on, above and beneath the leaf; 14.0–15.0 mm long flower; linear to falcate bracts and bracteoles; sparsely hirsute cupuliform hypanthium; triangular calyx lobes; 9.5–12.0 mm long corolla tube; stamens inserted at the middle of the corolla tube; and oblong and papillate stigma. A detailed description, colour photographs, comparison, phenology, distribution, conservation status and key to the allied taxa of the new species are provided.

Keywords: Kottayam, new species, Ophiorrhiza jomyi, Western Ghats

Ophiorrhiza jomyi Ebin, Sreehari & Joby sp. nov.
 (A) Habit, (B) stipule, (C–D) inflorescence, (E) bract, (F) bracteole, (G–H) adaxial and abaxial side of leaf, (I) indumentum on the upper surface of lamina, (J) indumentum on the lower surface of lamina, (K) flower bud, (L) single flower, (M) flower L.S., (N) indumentum on the stem, (O) indumentum on the peduncle, (O) indumentum on the petiole, (Q) hypanthium cup, (R) stamen, (S) gynoecium, (T) fruit, (U) seed.

Ophiorrhiza jomyi Ebin, Sreehari & Joby sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: This species shows close morphological resemblance with O. eriantha Wight, but differs in having densely ascending hirsute indumentum on stem (versus pubescent or glabrous stem), patent hirsute hairs on both sides of leaves (versus glabrous above, puberulous on the nerves beneath), densely hirsute petiole (versus glabrous or puberulous petiole), stipule acuminate to attenuate at apex (versus stipule bifid at apex), 14.0–15.0 mm long flower (versus 19.0–27.0 mm long flower), cupuliform hypanthium (versus obovoid hypanthium), triangular calyx lobes (versus subulate calyx lobes), densely puberulous hairs and with a villose ring at the middle of the corolla tube inside (versus glabrous inside without a ring of villose hairs), 2.5–3.0 mm long corolla lobes (versus 5.0–7.0 mm long corolla lobes), 1.75–2.0 mm long anthers (versus 3.0–3.5 mm long anthers), oblong stigma, obtuse at apex with papillate hairs (versus lanceolate stigma, acute at apex and glabrous), 0.4 × 0.5 mm, irregularly angled seeds (versus 0.6 × 0.5 mm, 4–6 angular seeds).

Etymology: The specific epithet is in honour of retired Professor, Dr Jomy Augustine, Department of Botany, St Thomas College, Pala, Kottayam, Kerala, for his guidance and support in the field of taxonomy to the authors. Dr Jomy Augustine has significantly contributed to the documentation and conservation of plant diversity in the Western Ghats through his extensive field explorations, research and publications.

 

Ebin Padiyara Joy, Sreehari Sivan Nair, Joby Paul. 2026. Ophiorrhiza jomyi (Rubiaceae) sp. nov. from the Vagamon Hills, southern Western Ghats, India. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05085 [21 March 2026]

 

[Botany • 2026] Begonia mizoramensis (Begoniaceae, sect. Platycentrum) • A New dioecious Species from Mizoram, Northeast India

 

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham,  

in Sailo, Khomdram, Yumkham, Lalthantluanga et Khiangte, 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw

Abstract

Begonia mizoramensis (Begoniaceae) under Begonia sect. Platycentrum (Klotzsch) A.DC. is described as a new species from Mizoram, Northeast India. It shares similarities in habit, leaf morphology and inflorescence with Begonia longifolia Blume and Begonia acetosella Craib, but differs in several characters, including longer internode, anthers with dehiscence extending beyond half their length, shorter pedicel in pistillate flower and a puberulent ovary with unequal wings. Taxonomic notes and pollen micromorphology are presented to confirm its novelty and sectional placement. Based on the available data, the newly discovered species has been provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Keyword: Begonia acetosella, Begonia longifolia, Begonia mizoramensis, Indo-Burma Hotspot, Mizoram, Platycentrum

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham sp. nov.
A. Male flowering branch and rhizome. B. Stem base and rhizome; C. Internodes; D. Stipule, E. Leaves (adaxial), F. Leaves (abaxial); G. Staminate flower; H. Male tepals. I. Stamen. J. Pistillate flower. K. Female tepals. L–M. Frontal (L) and side (M) view of ovary and stigma. N. Immature fruit. O. Cross section of ovary.

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham sp. nov.
 A–B. Habit (A. inset rhizome). C–D. Flowering twigs of male flowers (bee pollination in D). E. Solitary female flower, F. Flowering twig (abaxial surface). G. Portion of leaf (adaxial surface). H. Portion of leaf base with petiole (abaxial surface). I. Bracts. J. Stipules. K–M. Male Flowers. N. Androecium. O. Stamen showing dehiscence line.

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham, sp. nov.  

 Section Platycentrum 

Diagnosis: Begonia mizoramensis resembles B. longifolia and B. acetosella in habit, leaf morphology and inflorescence but differs by anthers with dehiscence extending beyond half their length, shorter pedicel in pistillate flower (3 mm) and puberulent ovary with unequal wings. B. mizoramensis differs from B. longifolia in sexuality (dioecious vs. monoecious), pedicel in staminate flowers (7–11 mm vs. 25–30 mm) and ovary (puberulent, not inflated vs. glabrous, slightly crested, inflated). It also differs from B. acetosella in peduncle (1– 5.5 mm long, glabrous vs. 2–10 mm long, puberulous), tepal number in pistillate flower (6 vs. 4) and in ovary (3- loculed vs. 4-loculed). 

 

 

Vanlalawmpuia Sailo, Sandhyarani Devi Khomdram, Sanatombi Devi Yumkham, Renthlei Lalthantluanga and Laldinliana Khiangte. 2026. Begonia mizoramensis (Begoniaceae, section Platycentrum), A New dioecious Species from Mizoram, Northeast India.  Taiwania. 71(2); 213-220. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.213 [17 March 2026] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2161

[Herpetology • 2026] Calamaria mizoramensis • A New Species of the Genus Calamaria (Squamata: Calamariidae) from Mizoram State, India

 

Calamaria mizoramensis 

Lalremsanga, Malsawmdawngliana, Bal, Vabeiryureilai, Hruaia, Korolev, Vogel, Poyarkov & Nguyen, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5741.1.2 

 Researchgate.net/publication/399437048 

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Abstract

We describe a new species of the genus Calamaria from Mizoram State, Northeast India, based on a combination of morphological and molecular evidence. Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by a unique combination of morphological characters, including: 8–11 enlarged maxillary teeth; rostral higher than wide; prefrontal shorter than frontal and contacting the first two supralabials; mental not in contact with anterior chin shields; dorsal scales in 13–13–13 rows, smooth throughout; a single preocular and postocular; four supralabials, with the 2nd and 3rd ones contacting the eye; five infralabials; six scales surrounding the paraparietal; 147–175 ventrals; 13–27 paired subcaudals; a relatively short tail (10.3–13.1% in males, 4.7–6.5% of total length), thick and nearly cylindrical, terminating in an obtuse tip; dark brown to blackish-brown, with three to six longitudinal rows of slightly paler or dark-edged scales forming indistinct stripes of variable clarity along the body and a faint pale nuchal ring; a yellow ventral surface with dark outer corners on the ventral scales; and a broad, distinct median black stripe on the ventral surface of the tail. Phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene suggests that the new species represents a deeply divergent lineage within the genus Calamaria, with sister relationships to a clade that includes the remaining species from Indochina and East Asia. The genetic divergence of the new species from all its congeners for which the homologous sequences are available is also very high (minimal uncorrected p-distance of 15.3%). The new species is currently known from montane evergreen forests of Mizoram State, India (from elevations of 670–1,295 m asl.). This discovery adds to the growing number of herpetological findings in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot and reinforces the need to reassess the complex taxonomy of the genus Calamaria. In addition, we provide the first comprehensive and updated checklist of the herpetofauna of Mizoram State, documenting 169 species, including 52 amphibians and 117 reptiles.

Reptilia, Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov., morphology, mtDNA, taxonomy, Indo-Burma Region

Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov., adult male holotype (MZMu 3744) before preservation:

Photographs in life and in situ of Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov. from Mizoram, India.
(A) Sawleng, Saitual (MZMU 865); (B) North Hlimen, kolasib (MZMU 915);
(C) Chanmari West, Aizawl (MZMU 867); (D) Sihphir, Aizawl(MZMU 2411);
(E) kawrthah, Mamit (MZMU 866); (F) Tlangpui, Mamit (uncollected).

Photographs by H.T. Lalremsanga (A,E), J.C. Alfred Van Sanglura (B), Vanlal Hrima (C), Lalzarzoa (D), and Lal Muansanga (F). 

Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov.  

Hmar Tlawmte LALREMSANGA, Fanai MALSAWMDAWNGLIANA, Amit Kumar BAL, Mathipi VABEIRYUREILAI, Vanlal HRUAIA, Alexey M. KOROLEV, Gernot VOGEL, Nikolay A. POYARKOV and Tan Van NGUYEN. 2026. A New Species of the Genus Calamaria H. Boie in F. Boie, 1827 (Squamata: Calamariidae) from Mizoram State, India.  Zootaxa. 5741(1); 49-86. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5741.1.2 [2026-01-05]

 Researchgate.net/publication/399437048_A_new_species_of_the_genus_Calamaria_from_Mizoram_State_India

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[Botany • 2025] Argostemma sawmlianae (Rubiaceae: Argostemmateae) • A New Species from Northeast India under the Indo-Burma Hotspot

 

Argostemma sawmlianae Lalhlupuii, Tlanhlui, S.D.Khomdram & S.D.Yumkham, 

in Lalhlupuii, Tlanhlui, Khomdram et Yumkham. 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.266.162537

Abstract

Argostemma sawmlianae (Rubiaceae), a new species from Mizoram, Northeast India, within the Indo-Burma hotspot, is described and illustrated. The species is compared with its allied species A. courtallense and A. sarmentosum, from which it differs by a set of distinctive morphological characters that include a pair of larger sessile leaves (11.5–18.5 cm long), longer peduncle (4–6.5 cm long), more flowers per cyme (8–33) and campanulate corolla with falcate lobes, reflexed and prominently rolled backward. The molecular analyses based on matK (cpDNA) and ITS2 (nrDNA) sequences support the morphological evidences confirming A. sawmlianae as a distinct new species. The newly discovered species is provisionally categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) in accordance with the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (IUCN 2024) based on available data.

Key words: Argostemma, Indo-Burma hotspot, Mizoram, molecular, morphology, new species

Argostemma sawmlianae Lalhlupuii, Tlanhlui, S.D.Khomdram & S.D.Yumkham, sp. nov.
 A, B. Habit; C. Anisophyllous leaves with inflorescence (inverted view); D. Leaf with stipule; E, F. Anisophyllous leaves; G. Flower with bract; H. Inflorescence; I. Foliaceous bracts; J. Rudimentary leaves; K. Petaloid calyx with green tips; L. Corolla with green blotched tubes; M. Corolla with reflexed and backwardly rolled lobes; N. Single falcate shaped corolla lobe; O. Corolla lobes; P. Single stamen with curved filament; Q. Androecium with loosely arranged stamens.

 (photos by Margaret Lalhlupuii & Lal Tlanhlui).  

Argostemma sawmlianae Lalhlupuii, Tlanhlui, S.D.Khomdram & S.D.Yumkham, sp. nov.
A. Single flower; B. Pistil; C. Cross section of ovary; D. Seeds (LM image); E. Seed (SEM image); F. Pollen (SEM image); G. A. sawmlianae in type locality;
H, I. A. verticillatum from Manipur; J. A. kamjongense from Manipur; K. A. sarmentosum from Meghalaya. (photos by Margaret Lalhlupuii, Lal Tlanhlui & Yumkham).

 Argostemma sawmlianae Lalhlupuii, Tlanhlui, S.D.Khomdram & S.D.Yumkham, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. It is similar to Argostemma courtallense Arn. and A. sarmentosum Wall., but differs from the two in having one pair of larger sessile leaves (11.5–18.5 cm long), longer peduncle (4–6.5 cm long), more flowers per cyme (8–33), and campanulate corolla with falcate petals which are reflexed and strongly rolled backwards (Fig. 3, Table 1).

...

 Margaret Lalhlupuii, Lal Tlanhlui, Sandhyarani Devi Khomdram, Sanatombi Devi Yumkham. 2025. Argostemma sawmlianae (Rubiaceae, Argostemmateae), A New Species from Northeast India under the Indo-Burma Hotspot. PhytoKeys. 266: 317-328. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.266.162537

[Herpetology • 2022] Cyrtodactylus exercitus & C. siahaensis • Two New Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Northeast India

(A, B) Cyrtodactylus exercitus sp. nov.;
(D, E, G, H) Cyrtodactylus siahaensis sp. nov.  

Purkayastha, Lalremsanga, Litho, Rathee, Bohra, Mathipi, Biakzuala & Muansanga, 2022

DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2022.794.1659

ABSTRACT 

We describe two new species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827, each from the Indian states of Meghalaya and Mizoram based on morphology and ND2 gene sequences. The new species are a part of the Cyrtodactylus khasiensis group. Both species represent the highland clade within the south of Brahmaputra clade of Indo-Burmese Cyrtodactylus. Based on ND2 gene sequence, the species from Meghalaya have an uncorrected p-distance of 4.21%–4.25% from a lowland species C. guwahatiensis Agarwal, Mahony, Giri, Chaitanya & Bauer, 2018 and is a sister taxon to C. septentrionalis Agarwal, Mahony, Giri, Chaitanya & Bauer, 2018. The species from Mizoram differ from its sister species C. bengkhuaiai Purkayastha, Lalremsanga, Bohra, Biakzuala, Decemson, Muansanga, Vabeiryureilai, Chauhan & Rathee, 2021 by a p-distance of 8.33%. 

Keywords: Biodiversity, Indo-Burma Hotspot, bent-toed gecko, ND2, systematics

Cyrtodactylus exercitus sp. nov. in life (A. MZMU2542. B. MZMU2543. C. MZMU2545);
Cyrtodactylus siahaensis sp. nov. in life (D. MZMU2443. E. MZMU2444. F. MZMU2445. G. MZMU2446. H. MZMU2449. I. uncollected).

Cyrtodactylus exercitus sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Cyrtodactylus exercitus sp. nov. is a moderate-sized gecko (adult SVL 48.2–68.0 mm); 9–11 supralabials; 9–10 infralabials; dorsal tubercles are rounded, bluntly conical and feebly keeled in 21–24 longitudinal rows; 32–34 paravertebral tubercles between the level of the axilla and the level of the groin; 35–37 mid-ventral scale rows; 11–15 precloacal pores in males; 16–17 subdigital lamellae under IV toe; no single row of transversely enlarged subcaudal scales; dorsal markings are dark brown, irregular blotches with a distinctive white posterior border; tail with alternating dark and light bands.

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘exercitus’ is used as a noun in apposition in honour of the Indian army. 

Suggested common name: Indian army’s bent-toed gecko.

 

 Cyrtodactylus siahaensis sp. nov.

Etymology: The origin of specific epithet ‘siahaensis’ is derived from the name of the town, Siaha (a district capital of Siaha District) from where the type series was collected. 

Suggested common name: Siaha bent-toed gecko. 

Suggested local name: Khotlia (Mara ethnic language, which means bent-toed geckos).

 Jayaditya Purkayastha, Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga, Beirathie Litho, Yashpal Singh Rathee, Sanath Chandra Bohra, Vabeiryureilai Mathipi, Lal Biakzuala and Lal Muansanga. 2022. Two New Cyrtodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Northeast India. European Journal of Taxonomy. 794(1); 111-139. DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2022.794.1659 [2022-02-18]

[Botany • 2025] Ophiorrhiza mizoramensis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species From Mizoram, India

 

Ophiorrhiza mizoramensis  R. Lalnunfeli & L. Lalawmpuii, 

in Lalnunfeli, Lalawmpuii, Yadav, Karuppusamy et Richard. 2025.  

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70036 

 Researchgate.net/publication/396927525

 

ABSTRACT

A new species, Ophiorrhiza mizoramensis, is described from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, India. This species is closely allied to O. gajureliana Bawri & Baro, O. ripicola Craib and O. ochroleuca Hook.f., but can be differentiated by several characters, including 10–19 pairs of lateral leaf veins, a petiole up to 6 cm long; persistent ovate stipule; a pubescent, peduncled biparous helicoid cyme inflorescence reaching up to 12 cm in length; dark purplish-pink corolla tube up to 1.8 cm long; and oblanceolate stigma lobes about 14 mm in length. To enhance the understanding of this newly described species, comprehensive documentation has been provided, which includes a detailed morphological description, phenology, distribution, ecology, conservation status, comparative analysis of morphological features with closely allied species along with illustration and color photographs. The new species is evaluated and provisionally assessed as “Critically Endangered (CR-D)” according to recent red list IUCN criteria.

Keywords: India, new taxon, Ophiorrhiza, Rubiaceae, taxonomy

Ophiorrhiza mizoramensis R. Lalnunfeli & L. Lalawmpuii sp. nov.

 

Renthlei Lalnunfeli, Lucy Lalawmpuii, Pochamoni Bharath Simha Yadav, Subbiah Karuppusamy and Paulraj Selva Singh Richard. 2025. Ophiorrhiza mizoramensis (Rubiaceae)—A New Species From Mizoram, India. Feddes Repertorium. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70036 [26 October 2025]

 Researchgate.net/publication/396927525_Ophiorrhiza_mizoramensis_A_New_Species_From_Mizoram_India

[Herpetology • 2025] Smithophis leptofasciatus • A New Species of the Genus Smithophis Giri, et al., 2019 (Serpentes: Natricidae) from Mizoram, northeast India

 

Smithophis leptofasciatus

Muansanga, Purkayastha, Hruaia, Vabeiryureilai, Biakzuala, Decemson, Lalremsanga & Bohra, 2025

  

TAPROBANICA. 14(2)

Abstract 

Based on two specimens, we describe a new species of snake in the genus Smithophis from Mizoram, as determined through detailed morphological and molecular analyses of the cytochrome b mitochondrial gene. The new species genetically forms a sister taxon to the clade containing S. atemporalis, S. bicolor, and S. mizoramensis, with a strong nodal branch support along with a deep level of genetic divergence. The species can be easily distinguished from its congeners by several morphological and colouration characters, including the presence of distinct, narrow, and incomplete transverse bands in the dorsum. Our study also precisely determines the distribution of S. bicolor, restricting its range to Meghalaya and removing it from the faunal list of Mizoram. 

Keywords: cytochrome b, India, rain snake, Rhabdops, Smithophis bicolor, systematics, taxonomy

Smithophis leptofasciatus sp. nov. 

Diagnosis. The new species is a small sized natricid snake having a maximum SVL of 329 mm as well as a maximum TaL of 82 mm and can be diagnosed from all its congeners based on a combination of the following characters: (1) 17 smooth dorsal scale rows throughout the body; (2) 195–201 ventrals; (3) 67–78 subcaudals, all of which are paired; (4) anal scale paired; (5) a total of five circumorbital scales surrounding and touching the eye; (6) temporal scales distinctly present; (7) absence of keeled sacral scales in both males and females; (8) dorsum colour ...

Etymology. The specific epithet “leptofasciatus” is a Greek and Latin compound adjective (leptos + fasciatus) in the nominative singular given in masculine, which refers to “narrow banded” transverse body pattern on the dorsum, a distinct and distinguishing characteristic of the species. Suggested common name: narrow-banded rain snake (in English) and Ruahrul (in Mizo).

Lal Muansanga, Jayaditya Purkayastha, Vanlal Hruaia, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai, Lal Biakzuala, Ht Decemson, Hmar T. Lalremsanga and Sanath C. Bohra. 2025. A New Species of the Genus Smithophis Giri, Gower, Das et al., 2019 (Reptilia: Serpentes: Natricidae) from Mizoram, northeast India. TAPROBANICA. 14(2); 158-165. 

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[Herpetology • 2024] Cyrtodactylus barailensis, C. kiphire, C. namdaphaensis, etc. • Six New Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from northeastern India

Cyrtodactylus kiphire Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das,

C. barailensis Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das,

C. ngengpuiensis Boruah, Narayanan, Lalronunga, Deepak & Das,

C. manipurensis Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das,

C. namdaphaensis Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das, 

C. siangensis Boruah, Narayanan, Aravind, Deepak & Das,

in Boruah, Narayanan, Aravind, Lalronunga, Deepak et Das, 2024.

 DOI: 10.3897/vz.74.e124752 

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Abstract

We describe six new species of Cyrtodactylus from the khasiensis group using morphological characteristics, supported by the molecular analyses based on the mitochondrial ND2 gene. We used four different molecular species delimitation analyses that recovered six distinct undescribed lineages distributed across four states in northeastern India. Our phylogenetic analyses using ML and Bayesian approaches recovered a clade where the recently described C. arunachalensis and C. cayuensis align together with our other samples from Arunachal Pradesh, north of Brahmaputra River. Based on these results and overlapping morphological characteristics we synonymize C. arunachalensis with C. cayuensis. We provide updated comparative morphological characters for species in the khasiensis group and where available these characters are tabulated for males and females separately. Including the six new species the khasiensis group now contains 35 species, of which 26 are endemic to India.

Keywords: Himalaya, Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, molecular phylogeny, Sauria, taxonomy

gansi clade

Cyrtodactylus kiphire Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: A medium-sized gecko (SVL up to at least 64.7 mm); 10 supralabials; 9–12 infralabials; 16 bluntly conical and feebly keeled dorsal tubercles; 26–29 paravertebral tubercles; 35 or 36 midventral scales rows between the weak ventrolateral folds; no precloacal groove; six or seven precloacal pores in continuous series; 12–15 total subdigital lamellae beneath digit IV of pes; dark brown irregular cross bars or reticulation on dorsum.

Etymology: The specific epithet is derived from Kiphire, a District of Nagaland from where the type series of this species were collected.

Suggested common name: Kiphire bent-toed gecko.

 

Cyrtodactylus barailensis Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Medium-sized gecko, SVL at least 68.8 mm in adult female; supralabials 9–12 and infralabials nine; 12 or 13 lamellae beneath the digit IV of manus; 17 lamellae beneath digit IV of pes; 17 feebly keeled and bluntly conical tubercles across mid dorsum and 32 paravertebral tubercles; 36 smooth mid-ventral scales between ventrolateral folds; at least 10 small precloacal pores in female; head on top pale-brown with purplish tinge; dark-brown postorbital stripe continuing to above the ear opening; a dark-brown cross bar with irregular edges on nape; indistinct pale-yellow patch on occipital region; dorsally and laterally neck and back pale yellowish-brown with dark-brown irregular reticulation.

Etymology: The specific epithet is a toponym derived from the name of the hill range “Barail” where the type locality of the species lies.

Suggested common name: Barail Hills bent-toed gecko.

Cyrtodactylus manipurensis Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Medium-sized gecko, SVL at least 59.5 mm in adult male; 10 supralabials; eight or nine infralabials; 21 bluntly conical and feebly keeled tubercles across midbody; 37 paravertebral tubercles; 36 mid-ventral scales between ventrolateral folds; 11 or 12 subdigital lamellae beneath digit IV of manus; 13–16 subdigital lamellae beneath digit IV of pes; seven precloacal pores arranged in a continuous series; six irregular shaped dark-brown cross bands on back between axilla and groin; tail dorsally with eight dark-brown and seven pale-brown bands arranged alternatively.

Etymology: This species is named after Manipur state in India.

Suggested common name: Manipur bent-toed gecko.

khasiensis clade

Cyrtodactylus ngengpuiensis Boruah, Narayanan, Lalronunga, Deepak & Das, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Medium-sized gecko (SVL at least 61.2 mm in adult male and 72–74.1 mm in adult females); 9–12 supralabials; 8–11 infralabials; 18–20 bluntly conical and feebly keeled dorsal tubercles; 29–34 paravertebral tubercles; 38 or 39 midventral scale rows between the weak ventrolateral folds; no precloacal groove; at least 27 precloacofemoral pores in continuous series in male and 10–16 small precloacal pores in females; short dark-brown bars between a pair of dorsolateral stripes or enlarged irregular dark-brown spots present on dorsum.

Etymology: The specific epithet is a toponym derived from the name “Ngengpui Wildlife Sanctuary” of Mizoram state from where the type series of the species were collected.

Suggested common name: Ngengpui bent-toed gecko.

mombergi clade  

Cyrtodactylus namdaphaensis Boruah, Narayanan, Deepak & Das, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Medium-sized gecko (SVL 57.5–70.7 mm in males and SVL 54.8–69.3 mm in females); supralabials and infralabials 8–11; dorsum with weakly keeled and bluntly conical tubercles, 29–36 paravertebral tubercles between the level of axilla and level of groin; 17–19 dorsal tubercle rows at mid body; 33–40 mid ventral scale rows; seven to nine precloacal pores in males and 8–10 small precloacal pores in females in a continuous series, PcP much smaller in females than that of males; 12–14 subdigital lamellae on finger IV and 11–17 subdigital lamellae on toe IV; irregular dark-brown spots or stripes on dorsum.

Etymology: The specific epithet is a toponym named after its type locality Namdapha Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, India.

Suggested common name: Namdapha bent-toed gecko.

cayuensis clade

Cyrtodactylus siangensis sp. nov.
 an uncollected male in natural habitat from Jorsing, East Siang, Arunachal Pradesh. 

Cyrtodactylus siangensis Boruah, Narayanan, Aravind, Deepak & Das, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Medium-sized gecko (SVL 70.1–72.1 mm in females); males unknown; supralabials 8–12 and infralabials 9–12; tubercles on dorsum weakly keeled and bluntly conical, 26–32 paravertebral tubercles between the level of axilla and level of groin; 15 or 16 dorsal tubercle rows at mid body; 40–45 mid ventral scale rows; 8–10 small precloacal pores in a continuous series; 13–17 subdigital lamellae on finger IV and 14–19 subdigital lamellae on toe IV; six or seven irregular and broken dark-brown bands on dorsum between the level of axilla and level of groin, or irregular dark-brown reticulation on dorsum.

Etymology: The specific epithet is a toponym derived from the name of the river “Siang”. The type locality of this species lies in the Siang valley of Arunachal Pradesh.

Suggested common name: Siang Valley bent-toed gecko.

 Bitupan Boruah, Surya Narayanan, Neelavar Ananthram Aravind, Samuel Lalronunga, V. Deepak and Abhijit Das. 2024. Description of Six New Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from northeastern India. Vertebrate Zoology. 74: 453-486. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/vz.74.e124752

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