[Botany • 2026] Puya ukumari (Bromeliaceae: Puyoideae) • A New montane bromeliad Species from southeastern Peru

Puya ukumari  Treviño, Yuca & Gouda, 

in Yuca-Palomino, Mamani-Mayta, Champi-Charalla, Condori-Cuti, Llacta-Gomez, Treviño-Zevallos, Gouda, Forsyth, Whitworth et Pillco-Huarcaya, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.280.211255

Abstract

Montane forests of the Tropical Andes are among the most diverse and endemic-rich ecosystems in the world; however, they remain insufficiently documented, particularly in remote and topographically complex landscapes. Here, we describe Puya ukumari sp. nov. (Bromeliaceae), a new species from humid montane forests and forest–puna ecotonal habitats in the Kosñipata and Mapacho valleys of southeastern Peru, occurring at elevations between 2,300 and 3,300 m a.s.l. The species was first detected during a long-term ecological monitoring program in the region but remained unrecognized for several years due to the limited number of recorded flowering individuals. Its taxonomic identity became evident following the observation of flowering plants during field surveys conducted in 2025. Puya ukumari resembles P. lineata in possessing a simple, nodding, dark-colored inflorescence; however, it is readily distinguished by its considerably larger flowering plant height (160–200 cm vs. 40–80 cm), significantly wider inflorescence diameter (11–12.5 cm vs. 3.5–6 cm), larger lanate sepals (30–33 × 15–18 mm vs. 13–18 × 6–10 mm and floccose), and markedly darker, nearly black petals. These characters support its recognition as a distinct taxon within the group of Puya species with simple inflorescences. The species is currently known from a limited number of confirmed localities within a restricted elevational range. Based on its distribution and the observed threats to its habitat, a preliminary conservation assessment suggests that it should be classified as Endangered (EN) according to IUCN Red List criteria.

Key words: Bromeliaceae, montane forest, Peru, plant taxonomy, Tropical Andes

 

Puya ukumari sp. nov.
A. Habit; B. Lateral view of the flower and longitudinal section of the flower; C. Androecium and gynoecium; D. Stigma with spirally twisted lobes; E. Adaxial and abaxial views of the floral bract; F. Juvenile leaves; G. Spine; H. Blade indument and marginal leaf spines; I. Upper inflorescence bracts near the flowers; J. Basal inflorescence bracts; K. Lateral view of the fruit; L. Bottom view of the fruit; M. Transverse section of the fruit; N. Winged seed.

Illustration by Nidia Sanchez.

Puya ukumari sp. nov.
 A. Inflorescence; B. Frontal view of the flower; C. Lateral view of the flower; D. Longitudinal section of the flower; E1. Androecium and gynoecium; E2. Dorsifixed anthers; E3. Stigma with spirally twisted lobes; F1. Upper right petal; F2. Upper left petal; F3. Lower petal; G1. Adaxial view of the floral bract; G2. Abaxial view of the floral bract; H1. Perianth dissection, showing sepals and petals; H2. Sepal apex; H3. Petal apex. Photographs by Jhon Yuca.

Ecological context, floral visitors, and early regeneration of Puya ukumari sp. nov. 
a. Habitat in humid upper montane forest and forest–puna ecotone, showing rocky slopes and discontinuous canopy where the species occurs;
b. Diurnal floral visitor (bee, Apis mellifera) interacting with flowers during anthesis; c. Diurnal floral visitor Boissonneaua matthewsii approaching the inflorescence; d. Nocturnal floral visitor (Anoura sp.) recorded by camera trap during night activity;
e. Seed germination and early seedling development under ambient montane forest conditions at Wayqecha Biological Station. Scale bar: 5 mm.

Puya ukumari Treviño, Yuca & Gouda, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Puya ukumari is similar to P. lineata but is readily distinguished by its much larger flowering size (160–200 cm vs. 40–80 cm), significantly wider inflorescence (11–12.5 cm in diameter vs. 3.5–6 cm), and much larger sepals (30–33 × 15–18 mm vs. 13–18 × 6–10 mm), which are lanate in P. ukumari and floccose in P. lineata, as well as by its markedly darker petals (nearly black vs. blue).

Etymology. The specific epithet ukumari is a noun in apposition derived from the Quechua word “ukumari”, meaning Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus). The species is dedicated to the Andean bear in recognition of the ecological importance of Puya species as a key component of its diet and of their close association within Andean montane ecosystems.

 Jhon A. Yuca-Palomino, Norma G. Mamani-Mayta, Luis A. Champi-Charalla, Elias Condori-Cuti, Narciso Llacta-Gomez, Italo F. Treviño-Zevallos, Eric J. Gouda, Adrian Forsyth, Andrew Whitworth and Ruthmery Pillco-Huarcaya. 2026. Puya ukumari sp. nov. (Bromeliaceae, Puyoideae), A New montane bromeliad Species from southeastern Peru. PhytoKeys. 280: 113-131. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.280.211255 [15-10-2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Anchiale mabiensis & A. robusta • A Revision of Australian Anchiale Stål, 1875 (Phasmida: Phasmatidae), with the Description of Two New Species

  Anchiale mabiensis Coupland & Emmott, sp. nov. female, in situ

in Jones, Brock, Coupland, Emmott et Lo, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/aen.70096

 (photo by Angus J. Emmott).

ABSTRACT 

The Australian species of the Phasmida genus Anchiale Stål, 1875 (Phasmatinae: Phasmatini) are updated to include five species: Anchiale albopunctata (Kirby, 1896) stat. rev. (removed from synonymy with A. briareus (Gray, 1834)); A. briareus Gray, 1834 (= Ctenomorpha tessulata Gray, 1835 syn. nov.; = A. austrotessulata Brock & Hasenpush, 2007, replacement name for C. tessulata Gray, 1835), A. mabiensis Coupland & Emmott, sp. nov.; A. robusta Brock & Jones, sp. nov.; and A. spinicollis Gray, 1833. Lectotypes are designated for Ctenomorpha albopunctatum Kirby, 1896, C. nigrovaria Stål, 1875 (= A. briareus) and C. tessulata Gray, 1835. These taxonomic decisions are supported by Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial COXI gene fragment of all species except A. spinicollis. Anchiale albopunctata is currently known from mideastern Queensland, A. briareus from north-eastern New South Wales and south-eastern Queensland, A. mabiensis sp. nov. and A. robusta sp. nov. from tropical eastern Queensland, and A. spinicollis from the Northern Territory. A dichotomous key to all Australian species of Anchiale and their eggs is provided.

Keywords: Acrophylla, distribution, DNA, genus, insects, molecular, Phasmida, phylogenetic, specimens, taxonomy

Anchiale albopunctata (Kirby, 1896) stat. rev. 

(removed from synonymy with A. briareus (Gray, 1834)); 

A. briareus Gray, 1834 

(= Ctenomorpha tessulata Gray, 1835 syn. nov.; 

= A. austrotessulata Brock & Hasenpush, 2007,
replacement name for C. tessulata Gray, 1835), 

A. mabiensis Coupland & Emmott, sp. nov.; 

A. robusta Brock & Jones, sp. nov.; 

A. spinicollis Gray, 1833. 

  Anchiale mabiensis sp. nov. female, in situ

 (photo by Angus J. Emmott).

Anchiale mabiensis sp. nov. in situ.
(a) Female holotype (photo by Ross M. Coupland).
(b) paratype male (photo by Ross M. Coupland).
(c) Montane rainforest habitat (photo by Angus J. Emmott).

Anchiale mabiensis Coupland & Emmott, sp. nov. 

Anchiale robusta sp. nov. in situ.
 (a) Male. (b) Female. (c) Female defence display, inset: wings of preserved paratype female. (d) Coastal habitat, Bramston Beach, Qld. (e) Garden habitat, Kuranda, Qld

(all photos by Paul D. Brock).

Anchiale robusta Brock & Jones, sp. nov.

Braxton R. Jones, Paul D. Brock, Ross M. Coupland, Angus Emmott and Nathan Lo. 2026. A Revision of Australian Anchiale Stål, 1875 (Phasmida: Phasmatidae), with the Description of Two New Species. Austral Entomology. 65(4); e70096. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/aen.70096 [21 September 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Impatiens yakandawalarum (Balsaminaceae) • A New ecalcarate Species of Impatiens from the lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka

 

 Impatiens yakandawalarum  Gopallawa, Hapuarachchi & Jayathissa, 

in Gopallawa, Hapuarachchi, Jayathissa, Gunarathna et Karunarathna, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.4038/cjs.v55i4.10118  

  facebook.com/BhathiyaGopallawa

Abstract

Impatiens yakandawalarum Gopallawa, Hapuarachchi & Jayathissa, sp. nov., a new ecalcarate species from the lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka, is described and illustrated based on morphological evidence. The species was discovered on a wet rocky slope at Manna Kathi Ella, Kitulgala, Kegalle District, and represents the first Sri Lankan Impatiens characterized by a consistently ecalcarate lower sepal across the examined population and material. It is distinguished by a completely ecalcarate navicular lower sepal, a fleshy, globose to subglobose subterranean storage organ, and glabrous leaves. The flowers superficially resemble those of Impatiens thwaitesii Hook.f. ex Grey-Wilson, while the habit shows similarities to Impatiens janthina Thwaites. A description, illustrations, comparisons, and a preliminary conservation assessment are provided.

Keywords: ecalcarate, endemic species, Kitulgala, lithophyte, fleshy subterranean storage organ

Floral and vegetative morphology of Impatiens yakandawalarum sp. nov.
  A. Flower, frontal view. B. Dissected floral parts showing dorsal petal, lateral petals, lateral sepals. C. Androecium. D. Fruiting capsule. E. Dehisced capsule and seeds. F. Cross section of seed capsule. G. Lower sepal, inner and lateral views. H. Flower, lateral view. I. Flower, rear view. J. Floral bracts. K. Flower buds, lateral and dorsal views. L. Leaf variation, adaxial and abaxial surfaces. M. Leaf margin. N. Habit. O. Basal stem and fibrous roots. P. Longitudinal section of fleshy, globose to subglobose subterranean storage organ. Q. Fleshy, globose to subglobose subterranean storage organ with fibrous roots. Scale bars as indicated

Impatiens yakandawalarum Gopallawa, Hapuarachchi & Jayathissa, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Impatiens yakandawalarum differs from I. thwaitesii in possessing a globose to subglobose subterranean storage organ (vs absent), glabrous leaves (vs pubescent adaxially), terminal 2 – 3-flowered, umbel-like racemes (vs 6- to many-flowered subumbellate racemes), and a completely ecalcarate navicular lower sepal with a linear series of purplish-pink internal spots (vs a spurred lower sepal without such a linear series). It differs from I. janthina in its branched, 4 – 6 mm thick stem, terminal 2 – 3-flowered racemes with peduncles 5 – 16 cm long, completely ecalcarate lower sepal, and elongate-fusiform capsules.

Etymology: The specific epithet honours Professor Deepthi Yakandawala and Professor Kapila Yakandawala for their contributions to plant taxonomy, systematics, forestry, conservation and botanical research in Sri Lanka. As the epithet commemorates two people sharing the surname Yakandawala, yakandawalarum is formed as a genitive plural by adding -rum to a personal name ending in -a, in accordance with Art. 60.8 of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (Turland et al., 2025). 

Proposed common names E. Kitulgala Balsam,
S. කිතුල්ගල කූඩලු

Bhathiya Gopallawa, S. I. Hapuarachchi, Chathura Jayathissa, S. S. Gunarathna and Peshala Pasan Karunarathna. 2026. A New ecalcarate Species of Impatiens (Balsaminaceae) from the lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka. Ceylon Journal of Science. 55(4); 1424-1433. DOI: doi.org/10.4038/cjs.v55i4.10118 [Sep 30, 2026] 

  facebook.com/BhathiyaGopallawa/posts/28540718478914200

  facebook.com/PeshalaPasanKarunarathna/posts/28437253622595529

[Herpetology • 2026] Niceforonia florezarum • A New Species of Niceforonia (Anura: Craugastoridae) from the Colombian Massif, southwestern Colombia

Niceforonia florezarum

Pisso-Florez, Cardona-Giraldo, Ramírez-Chaves, Liévano-Bonilla, Mazepa & Mulder, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5881.3.1  

  facebook.com/IZBDLab

Abstract

The genus Niceforonia currently includes 17 species of small, terrestrial, direct-developing frogs distributed from Colombia to northern Peru. In Colombia, 11 species of Niceforonia have been reported, with five of these restricted to high Andean ecosystems, including Páramos. Field surveys conducted between 2017 and 2023, in the Páramo ecosystems of the Puracé National Park and its buffer zone, in southwestern Colombia, revealed a previously unidentified species of Niceforonia. Through an integration of phylogenetic, ecological, bioacoustic, and morphological analyses, we identified unique traits that support the recognition of this population as a new species of Niceforonia, restricted to Páramo and Subpáramo habitats over 3300 m in the Colombian Massif. The new species is sister to Niceforonia brunnea, which occurs 195 kilometers further south in the Department of Nariño of southwestern Colombia and northern Ecuador. With the discovery of this new species, Colombia now hosts 12 species of Niceforonia, six of which inhabit Páramo ecosystems. Our study expands the taxonomic knowledge of the genus and underscores the importance of further exploration in high-Andean ecosystems of southwestern Colombia, where biodiversity remains underexplored.

Amphibia, amphibians, Andes, Páramo, Puracé National Park, Terrarana

Niceforonia florezarum

 

Gustavo Adolfo PISSO-FLOREZ, Alexandra CARDONA-GIRALDO, Héctor E. RAMÍREZ-CHAVES, Andrés Felipe LIÉVANO-BONILLA, Glib O. MAZEPA and Kevin P. MULDER. 2026. A New Species of Niceforonia (Anura: Craugastoridae) from the Colombian Massif, southwestern Colombia.  Zootaxa. 5881(3); 301-326. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5881.3.1  [2026-09-22] 

 facebook.com/IZBDLab/posts/1853143722328113

 

[Botany • 2026] Neea myrciifolia (Nyctaginaceae: Pisonieae) • A New Species discovered in central Peru

 

Neea myrciifolia  D.S.Costa & Farroñay,

in Costa, Farroñay, Rossetto, Gonzáles et Giacomin, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10369-7

Summary

Neea myrciifolia D.S.Costa & Farroñay (Nyctaginaceae, Pisonieae) a new species found exclusively in central Peru, in montane forest remnants, is here described, more than 90 years after the last Neea species was described for the country. Images of the morphological structures, a distribution map and a provisional conservation status of the new species, as well as taxonomic notes on morphologically similar species, are provided.

Key Words: endemism, Neotropical flora, Pisonieae, Reserva Comunal Yanesha, taxonomy

Neea myrciifolia.
A – B branches with pistillate flowers and fruits; C – D pistillate inflorescence.
A, C from R. Rojas 5731; B, D from R. Vásquez 36005.

photos by: Rocío del Pilar Rojas Gonzáles & Rodolfo Vásquez.

Neea myrciifolia D.S.Costa & Farroñay, sp. nov. 

Recognition. Neea myrciifolia can be easily distinguished from all other species in the genus by a unique combination of vegetative and reproductive characters: opposite leaves with abaxial surface with a verrucose texture covered with sparse, pubescent to tomentose, reddish trichomes, globose 2-branched inflorescences with tubular staminate and pistillate flowers and patent, open, deltoid perianth lobes.

Etymology. The specific epithet "myrciifolia" refers to the vegetative resemblance, e.g. opposite leaves and brochidodromus venation, to the genus Myrcia DC. (Myrtaceae).

Daniel da Silva Costa, Francisco Farroñay, Elson Felipe Sandoli Rossetto, Rocío del Pilar Rojas Gonzáles and Leandro L. Giacomin. 2026. Discovering Neea myrciifolia: the first New Species of Neea from Peru in over 90 years.  Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10369-7 [03 August 2026]

x.com/manuelujan/status/2088201291327488285

[Herpetology • 2026] Duttaphrynus phawngpui • A New Montane Toad Species (Anura: Bufonidae: Duttaphrynus) from Mizoram, northeastern India

Duttaphrynus phawngpui 

 Dawngliana, Warjri, Amarasinghe, Bal, Hruaia, Hlychho, Lalremsanga, Vabeiryureilai & Purkayastha, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.47605/tapro.v15i2.423  

 Researchgate.net/publication/414271782

Abstract

We describe a new montane bufonid toad from Phawngpui National Park, Mizoram, northeastern India, using an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphology, multivariate morphometrics, and mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequence data. Phylogenetic analyses recover the Mizoram population as a well-supported lineage within the Duttaphrynus stuarti species group, distinct from its closest congeners, including D. stuarti, D. chandai, and D. dhara. Uncorrected 16S sequence divergence from currently recognised taxa ranges from 3.8–5.5%, consistent with species-level differentiation in Asian bufonids. Principal component analysis of size-corrected morphometric variables further supports its distinctiveness, with the new species occupying a discrete region of morphospace. The new species is characterized by moderate body size (SVL 47.72–56.26 mm), indistinct tympanum, absence of most cranial ridges, distinctive digital proportions, moderate toe webbing, and a dorsum with glandular warts, irregular dark blotches, and a narrow mid-dorsal stripe. Concordant molecular, morphometric, and morphological evidence supports its recognition as a distinct species. Known only from the type locality in high-elevation (>2000 m a.s.l.) montane habitats, the species highlights the importance of the Mizoram uplands for undocumented amphibian diversity within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

Duttaphrynus phawngpui sp. nov 

Malsawm Dawngliana, Holiness Warjri, A. A. Thasun Amarasinghe, Amit K. Bal, Vanlal Hruaia, Mara D. Hlychho, Hmar T. Lalremsanga, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai and Jayaditya Purkayastha. 2026. A New Montane Toad Species (ANURA: BUFONIDAE: Duttaphrynus) from Mizoram, northeastern INDIA. TAPROBANICA. 15(2); 298–309. DOI: doi.org/10.47605/tapro.v15i2.423 [13 September 2026]  

 Researchgate.net/publication/414271782_A_NEW_MONTANE_TOAD_Duttaphrynus_from_MIZORAM_NE_INDIA

[Herpetology • 2026] Niceforonia tempestuosa • A New Species of Niceforonia (Anura: Strabomantidae) from the Serranía de los Paraguas, Colombia, with the Description of A New phenotypic synapomorphy for the Niceforonia nigrovittata species group

[A-D] Niceforonia tempestuosa 

Ospina-Sarria, Rodríguez-Betancourt, Gómez-Sepúlveda, Morales-Vertel, Vélez-Franco, Gallego-Posada, Herrera-Rengifo, Grajales Escobar, Ceballos-Castro, García-Gómez, Velásquez-Trujillo, Ortiz Baez & Mendez Narvaez, 2026

and [F, H] N. mantipus (Boulenger, 1908)

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1289.198411

Abstract

A new species of Niceforonia is described from the montane cloud forests of southwestern Colombia. The new species is distinguished from all congeners by possessing dorsolateral folds, a visible tympanic membrane, a fleshy lip swelling in adult males, nuptial pads, circumferential grooves on all fingers, a reddish-brown to grayish dorsal coloration, yellow ventral and hidden surfaces, and dark supra-inguinal spots. Molecularly, the new species differs from all congeners by an uncorrected p-distance of > 7% for the 16S rRNA gene fragment. Furthermore, the possession of dark supra-inguinal spots optimizes unambiguously as a synapomorphy for two clades within Strabomantidae. The first clade comprises members of the genus Niceforonia and includes N. brunnea, N. dracula, N. elassodiscus, N. mantipus, N. nigrovittata, N. quilloturo, N. peraccai, four candidate species, and the new species described herein. This clade is referred to as the Niceforonia nigrovittata species group, diagnosed by the presence of dark supra-inguinal spots. By retaining this name, we ensure taxonomic stability and honor the well-established historical use of the nomenclature in literature. The second clade comprises members of the subfamily Holoadeninae, including the genera Bahius, Barycholos, Phyllonastes, and Urkuphryne. A previous study already proposed a phenotypic synapomorphy for the group composed of Phyllonastes + Barycholos. Consequently, the available evidence corroborates the monophyly of both the group comprising these four holoadenine genera and the Phyllonastes + Barycholos group. This congruence provides a robust, nested phylogenetic resolution and precise taxonomic diagnoses, demonstrating how the integration of molecular and phenotypic evidence is a powerful tool for testing evolutionary hypotheses in brachycephaloid frogs.

Key words: Brachycephaloid frogs, Cerro El Inglés, evolution, Key Biodiversity Area (KBA), taxonomy

Living specimens of Niceforonia tempestuosa and N. mantipus.
Dorsal and ventral views of adult males of Niceforonia tempestuosa. A, C. ARUQ-1885, SVL 24.5 mm; B, D. ARUQ-1882, SVL 23.8 mm
and N. mantipus; E, G. Specimen not collected; F, H. ARUQ-1881, SVL 23.5 mm.

Family: Strabomantidae Hedges, Duellman & Heinicke, 2008 

Genus: Niceforonia Goin & Cochran, 1963

Niceforonia tempestuosa sp. nov.

 

Proposed standard Spanish name. Rana de los bosques montanos nublados.

Proposed standard English name. Montane cloud forest frog.

Diagnosis. Niceforonia tempestuosa is diagnosed by the following combination of characters: (1) skin of dorsum smooth with scattered small warts; dorsolateral and \ /-shaped scapular folds present; venter smooth, discoidal fold absent; (2) tympanic membrane differentiated, upright-oval to round; its length 33.3–44.8% of eye length in six adult males and 47% in one adult female; prominent tympanic annulus, its upper edge covered by supratympanic fold, extending only just posterior to tympanic annulus; (3) snout subacuminate in dorsal view, rounded in profile; a fleshy swelling of lip in adult males; canthus rostralis straight; (4) upper eyelid bearing minute tubercles, narrower than IOD (62.0–85.1% IOD); interocular tubercle absent; cranial crest absent; (5) choanae small, ovoid; partially concealed by palatal shelf of maxillary arch; dentigerous ...

Etymology. The specific epithet is the feminine adjective tempestuosa (meaning “stormy”), derived from the Latin noun tempestas (meaning “storm” or “weather”). This name was chosen for local communities as a metaphor for the global climate emergency, referring to the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events—symbolized by the “storm”—which represent a growing threat to global biodiversity. The discovery of this new species in the Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) Serranía de los Paraguas underscores the resilience of this biodiversity hotspot amidst the current climate crisis, safeguarded by the persistent efforts of local communities and biodiversity guardians.

Habitat of Niceforonia tempestuosa at the type locality. The habitat is characterized by the presence of large tree buttresses and stilt roots of Wettinia sp. palms, with the forest floor covered by abundant leaf litter.

 Jhon Jairo Ospina-Sarria, Andrés Felipe Rodríguez-Betancourt, Ximena Gómez-Sepúlveda, Iván Darío Morales-Vertel, Valentina Vélez-Franco, Nayely Gallego-Posada, Jose Daniel Herrera-Rengifo, John Edison Grajales Escobar, Irene Ceballos-Castro, Isabella García-Gómez, David Andrés Velásquez-Trujillo, Ayda Susana Ortiz Baez and Javier Mendez Narvaez. 2026. A New Species of Niceforonia (Amphibia, Anura, Strabomantidae) from the Serranía de los Paraguas, Colombia, with the Description of A New phenotypic synapomorphy for the Niceforonia nigrovittata species group. ZooKeys. 1289: 159-184. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1289.198411 [11-08-2026]

[Botany • 2024] Maxillaria andina (Orchidaceae: Maxillariinae) • A New Species from the northern Andes

Maxillaria andina Pisso-Florez, J.S.Moreno, P.A.Harding & Baquero,  

in Pisso-Florez, Moreno, Harding et Baquero, 2024.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.15517/lank.v24i1.56756

Abstract

Maxillaria andina, a new orchid species from high-Andean ecosystems of southwestern Colombia and northern Ecuador, is described. The new species is distinguished by having long and narrowly linear white sepals and petals with revolute margins, lip with mucronate epichile, and callus without hairs or trichomes. Distinguishing characters are provided to differentiate it from morphologically similar species, along with ecological and taxonomical notes. Additionally, Maxillaria sibundoyensis is synonymized with Maxillaria floribunda.

Keywords: Colombia, Ecuador, high-Andean ecosystems, Neotropical flora, taxonomy

Maxillaria andina Pisso-Florez, J.S.Moreno, P.A.Harding & Baquero.
A. Habit. B. Flower. C. Dissected perianth, not flattened. D. Ovary, column and lip, lateral view. E. Adaxial view of lip. F. Column, oblique, ventral, and lateral views. LCDP by G.A. Pisso-Florez and J.S. Moreno based on the holotype.

Maxillaria andina Pisso-Florez, J.S.Moreno, P.A.Harding & Baquero, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Maxillaria andina is most similar to M. floribunda and Maxillaria caveroi D.E.Benn. & Christen-son. It is distinguished from M. floribunda by having the entirely white sepals and petals (vs. yellow, white and brownish petals), the longer and narrower sepals (6.08–6.55 × 0.26–0.57 vs. 5.3 × 1.0 cm), the smaller lip (0.78 × 1.14 vs. 1.3 × 1.8 cm), with the mid-lobe apex verrucose (vs. scabrous), and the base of the lip scabrous (vs. slightly verrucose or spiculate). The new species differs from M. caveroi by having narrower, linear sepals and petals (vs. lanceolate) and the absence of sparse trichomes on the lip.

Etymology: Named in reference to the Andean region of Colombia and Ecuador in South America, where the new species was found. The Andean region is a key area for conserving the diversity of Maxillariinae species.

 Gustavo Adolfo Pisso-Florez, Juan Sebastián Moreno, Patricia A. Harding and Luis E. Baquero. 2024. A New Species of Maxillaria (Maxillariinae) from the northern Andes and a new synonym of Maxillaria floribunda. Lankesteriana. 24(1); 79-91. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/lank.v24i1.56756 [2024-04-22]

#NuevaEspecie #PlantasColombia  

Etymology: its name refers to the Andean region between Colombia and Ecuador, where this species is distributed.

[Botany • 2026] Bryobium scutatum (Orchidaceae) • A New Species of Bryobium from Sumatra, Indonesia [Flora of Gayo Plateau IV]

 

Bryobium scutatum  Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit.,

in Schuiteman, Mustaqim et Champion, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

  facebook.com: Jeffrey Champion 

Abstract

A new species of Bryobium Lindl. is described based on specimens collected in northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra. It is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) due to its narrow range and imminent threats to its habitat. A detailed description, photographs, an illustration, and a key to Sumatran Bryobium species are provided. 

Keywords: epiphyte, key, Red List, taxonomy, Indonesia

 Morphology of Bryobium scutatum.
 A. Sterile stem. B. Plant in flower. C. Inflorescence. D. Flowers. E. Flower, front view. F. Flower, lateral view. G. Dorsal sepals, abaxial and adaxial views. H. Lateral sepals, abaxial and adaxial views. I. Petals, adaxial and abaxial views. J. Column and lip, lateral view. K. Lip, adaxial view. L. Lip, adaxial view. M. Lip, lateral view. N. Lip, front view. O. Column and column-foot, ventral view. P. Anther cap, ventral views without and with the pollinarium. Q. Pollinia.

Photographs after Mustaqim et al. 4045 by Wendy A. Mustaqim (A-L and O-P) and after cult. J. Champion s.n. by Jeffrey Champion (M-N).

Bryobium scutatum Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit., sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: The new species is superficially similarto B. pullum from Sulawesi but differs in havinglarger floral parts (e.g., sepals 9.5–10.0 vs. 6 mm),a lip mid-lobe (epichile) with a central callus andtwo calli at the base (vs. mid-lobe without calli), lipnot constricted (vs. lip abruptly constricted near themiddle), basal calli of the lip shield-like ( vs. basalcalli ridge-like). The base of the lip is dark reddish ...

Etymology: From the Latin scutatus, ‘carrying ashield’, referring to the shield-like calli on the lip.

André Schuiteman, Wendy A. Mustaqim and Jeffrey Champion. 2026. Flora of Gayo Plateau IV: A New Species of Bryobium (Orchidaceae) from Gayo Plateau, Sumatra. LANKESTERIANA. 26(2); 93–100. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

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 Researchgate.net/publication/408315562_A_new_species_of_Bryobium_from_Gayo_Plateau_Sumatra

  

[Herpetology • 2026] Pristimantis milpe • Long overdue: A New, widespread, species of Pristimantis (Anura: Strabomantidae) from the Chocó region and the synonymy of Pristimantis subsigillatus

 Pristimantis milpe 

Ron, Paredes-Aguirre, Paucar, López, Apunte & Ortega, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1286.194383  

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Abstract

As currently defined, Pristimantis subsigillatus is a species of the P. lacrimosus species group distributed in the Chocó of Colombia and Ecuador, from lowlands to Andean foothill forests. Upon re-examination of the holotype of P. subsigillatus, we conclude that the populations currently ascribed to P. subsigillatus are not conspecific with the holotype. Instead, the holotype is conspecific with one of the syntypes of P. latidiscus, a species described four years before from a nearby locality. To avoid the ambiguity in the application of the binomen Hylodes latidiscus, we designate a lectotype. As a result, P. subsigillatus becomes a junior synonym of P. latidiscus. The misidentified populations represent an undescribed species which we describe based on morphological, bioacoustic, and genetic data as Pristimantis milpe sp. nov. The new species has one of the widest distributions among Chocoan Pristimantis and is unusual for having sexual dimorphism in coloration. It is most closely related to Pristimantis degener from which it diverged in the late Miocene and is morphologically distinct. The fact that such a common species remained “invisible” to taxonomy highlights the importance of correctly establishing the link between the name-bearing types and natural populations. Finally, we discuss how taxonomic treatments of Pristimantis during the second half of the 20th century often made this non-trivial error.

Key words: Andes, holotype, integrative taxonomy, lectotype, phylogeny, systematics

Pristimantis milpe sp. nov.

Common name. English: Milpe Rain Frog.
Spanish: Cutín de Milpe.

Diagnosis. We assign the new species to the genus Pristimantis based on the phylogeny (Fig. 5). Species of Pristimantis characterized by: (1) smooth to slightly tuberculate dorsal skin, areolate belly; discoidal fold evident; dorsolateral folds absent; (2) tympanum condition B; tympanic ring covered dorsally by supratympanic fold, tympanic membrane not differentiated; (3) truncate snout in dorsal view and protruding in lateral view; (4) upper eyelid generally without tubercles (occasionally one tiny tubercle present); (5) cranial crests absent; (6) oblique dentigerous processes of vomers; (7) vocal slits present, nuptial pads ...

Photographs showing color variation in living adult males of  Pristimantis milpe sp. nov.
 A. QCAZ-A 77106, holotype, SVL = 24.77 mm; B. QCAZ-A 76585, paratype, SVL = 26.97 mm; C. QCAZ-A 76518, paratype, SVL = 26.06 mm; D. QCAZ-A 65561, SVL = 19.64 mm; E. QCAZ-A 67428, SVL = 26.47 mm. Left column: dorsolateral view; central column: dorsal view; right column: ventral view. F. QCAZ-A 79899; note significant color change within a period of less than 24 h. Locality data for all specimens is provided in the holotype and paratypes sections.

Photographs showing color variation in living adult/subadult females of Pristimantis milpe sp. nov.
  A. QCAZ-A 67424, paratype, adult female, SVL = 32.07 mm; B. QCAZ-A 45268, paratype, subadult female, SVL = 29.44 mm; C. QCAZ-A 74171, paratype, adult female, SVL = 34.21 mm; D. QCAZ-A 74172, paratype, adult female, SVL = 34.17 mm; E. QCAZ-A 51314, adult female, SVL = 33.13 mm. Left column: dorsolateral view; central column: dorsal view; right column: ventral view. Locality data for all specimens is provided in the paratypes section.

Etymology. The specific epithet is a noun in apposition and refers to the type locality, the Milpe Bird Sanctuary, a private reserve in Pichincha Province, Ecuador. The sanctuary protects ~ 100 ha of Foothill Montane Forest and is part of the Andean Chocó, one of the most diverse and threatened regions on the planet. The Milpe Bird Sanctuary is managed by the Mindo Cloudforest Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity in the Andean Chocó. The Foundation maintains close relationships with local communities, promoting environmental education, sustainable livelihoods, and participatory management of natural resources. It also supports other private reserves and local Decentralized Autonomous Governments in forest restoration through the production of native plants in their nurseries, strengthening long-term conservation in the region.

Santiago R. Ron, Poulette Paredes-Aguirre, Diego A. Paucar, Yaara López, Katherine Apunte and Jhael A. Ortega. 2026. Long overdue: A New, widespread, species of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the Chocó region and the synonymy of Pristimantis subsigillatus. ZooKeys. 1286: 121-152. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1286.194383 [24 Jul 2026] 

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