[Paleontology • 2026] Spea labreae • A New extinct Pleistocene Species of Spadefoot Toad (Anura: Scaphiopodidae) and comments on the Paleoecology and Paleobiogeography of Anurans from Rancho La Brea, California

Reconstruction of Spea labreae, (dark spadefoots, center) in La Brea Tar Pits compared with Spea hammondii (light spadefoot, left), the species currently present in the area, and the presence of the Mexican burrowing toad (Rhinophrynidae, bottom). 

 Cruz & Lindsey, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2026.2689465 

Artwork by Arturo Dávalos

ABSTRACT

Fossil amphibians hold great promise for paleoecological, paleoclimatological, and biogeographic studies because of their extreme sensitivity to environmental conditions. However, the study of fossil amphibians to date has been limited, because the fragility of frog, toad, and salamander skeletons means that diagnostic elements are rarely preserved in the fossil record. One unique locality that preserves a robust record of Quaternary amphibians is Rancho La Brea in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. Here, we describe the amphibian fauna from the Hancock Collection of Rancho La Brea, which contains fossils from ∼45,000 years before present through the Holocene. We document previously unrecognized taxa from this locality, including the Mexican burrowing toad Rhinophrynus sp. and a new species of spadefoot toad, Spea labreae, sp. nov. Using osteological comparison material, we calculate the size of this new species of Spea, which is larger than the extant species in this genus. We analyze the current distribution and fossil record of the genus Spea and the family Rhinophrynidae, documenting changes in geographic ranges of these taxa during the Quaternary. These changes likely resulted from the interplay of deglacial climate changes and topographic complexity in the American Southwest, and may help to predict amphibian responses to climate changes impacting the region today.

Class AMPHIBIA, Linnaeus, 1767

Order ANURA Rafinesque, 1815

Family SCAPHIOPODIDAE Cope, 1865

Genus SPEA Cope, 1866

SPEA LABREAE, sp. nov.

Etymology—The specific epithet refers to La Brea, Spanish for ‘the tar’ which gave rise to the name of Rancho La Brea, the locality where this species is found.

 

Locality, Horizon, and Age—Pit A, Rancho La Brea, Los Angeles, California, Late Pleistocene–Holocene.

 

Reconstruction of Spea labreae, (dark spadefoots, center and right) in La Brea Tar Pits compared with Spea hammondii (light spadefoot, left), the species currently present in the area, and the presence of the Mexican burrowing toad (Rhinophrynidae, bottom).

 Artwork by Arturo Dávalos.

 

J. Alberto Cruz and Emily L. Lindsey. 2026. A New extinct Pleistocene Species of Spadefoot Toad and comments on the Paleoecology and Paleobiogeography of Anurans from Rancho La Brea, California. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. e2689465. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2026.2689465 [04 Aug 2026]

[Mollusca • 2022] Dendronotus shpataki • A New Species of the Genus Dendronotus (Gastropoda: Nudibranchia) from the Sea of Japan: a contribution of citizen science to marine zoology

  

Dendronotus shpataki sp. nov. in natural environment.

Ekimova, Mikhlina, Antokhina & Schepetov, 2022

 

DOI: 10.31610/zsr/2022.31.1.3 

  Researchgate.net/publication/358210579

Photos by Andrey Shpatak.

Abstract

 The nudibranch genus Dendronotus Alder et Hancock, 1845 is a common component of boreal and arctic ecosystems, which has recently received a considerable attention due to its high cryptic diversity. Here we describe a new species Dendronotus shpataki sp. nov. from the northwestern Sea of Japan, using the material and observations provided by Andrey Shpatak, a local citizen, diver and underwater photographer. We studied morphological features of the new species, including external morphology, coloration, jaw and radular morphology, and configuration of the reproductive system, as well as its ecological traits including possible diet preferences. We obtained DNA sequences and reconstructed the phylogeny by Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood approaches using four molecular markers (mitochondrial COI and 16S rRNA, and nuclear histone H3 and 28S rRNA), and tested the boundaries between the species by calculating the uncorrected p-distances and automatic species delimitation methods ABGD and GMYC. Our results show that D. shpataki sp. nov. differs both morphologically and genetically from all other Dendronotus species. The new species possibly represents a unique example of local endemism, being found in a single locality, while other local Dendronotus species demonstrate wide distribution in the North-West Pacific. We also report on a considerable wearing of the radular teeth during feeding, which is a remarkable case for the Dendronotus.

Key words: North-West Pacific, biodiversity, morphology, radula, molecular markers, phylogeny, Nudibranchia, Dendronotidae, Dendronotus, new species

Dendronotus shpataki sp. nov., general appearance of living specimens.
 Holotype: dorsal view (A), lateral view (B) and ventral view (C).
Paratypes, dorsal view: adult specimens MIMB42309 (D), MIMB42308 (E), MIMB42305 (F)
and juvenile MIMB42306 (G). 

Scale bar: 5 mm.

Dendronotus shpataki sp. nov. in natural environment.
 Paratype MIMB42302 (A–C); the first documented finding of the new species in May 2015,
 the specimen was not collected (D); paratypes MIMB42303 (E, F).

Photos by Andrey Shpatak.

Dendronotus shpataki sp. nov.

I.A. Ekimova, A.L. Mikhlina, T.I. Antokhina and D.M. Schepetov. 2022. A Description of Dendronotus shpataki sp. nov. (Gastropoda: Nudibranchia) from the Sea of Japan: a contribution of citizen science to marine zoology. Zoosystematica Rossica. 31(1); 3–19. DOI: 10.31610/zsr/2022.31.1.3 

  Researchgate.net/publication/358210579_A_description_of_Dendronotus_shpataki_from_the_Sea_of_Japan

[Botany • 2026] Reinstatement of Meiogyne monogyna (Annonaceae) and A Key to the Species of Meiogyne in China

 

Meiogyne monogyna (Merr.) Bân, 

in Yang, Wang, Lai et Tan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.5  

english.CAS.cn 

Abstract

Meiogyne monogyna (Merr.) Bân was previously treated as conspecific with the widespread M. virgata (Blume) Miq. and was synonymized under the latter. However, based on detailed examinations of herbarium specimens and field observations of living plants, we confirm that M. monogyna is a morphologically distinct species. Consequently, we reinstate its species status and document it as a new record for the flora of China, providing a comprehensive taxonomic description and including it in an updated identification key for all three species of Meiogyne recorded in China.

Magnoliids, Meiogyne virgata, morphology, synonym, taxonomy, type, Yunnan

Meiogyne monogyna (Merr.) Bân

BIN YANG, WEN-GUANG WANG, HAN LAI, JIN-GUO ZHANG, YAN-MEI PING and YUN-HONG TAN. 2026. Reinstatement of Meiogyne monogyna (Annonaceae) and A Key to the Species of Meiogyne in China including a new record.  Phytotaxa. 767(1); 45-53. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.5 [2026-07-16]

Meiogyne monogyna Reinstated as A Distinct Species and Newly Recorded in China

https://english.CAS.cn/newsroom/research-news/202607/t20260727_1179205.shtml

[Botany • 2026] Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Guangxi, China

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis Y.Nong & G.Y.Wei, 

in Wei, J.-Y. Li, Chen, Y. Nong, Hu, Y.-J. Li, Ji, Xu et Y.-K. Nong. 2026. 

忻城螺序草  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.194094

Abstract

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from the middle part of Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated on the basis of morphological evidence. This new species resembles Ophiorrhiza longanensis in its densely pubescent stems, linear stipules, terminal or upper axillary inflorescences, but it can be distinguished by its elliptic or oblanceolate leaf blade, base attenuate (vs. oval, ovate to broadly ovate, base cuneate), its 2–3 mm long stipules (vs. 3.8–6.5 mm long), its 3–5 mm long bracteoles (vs. 6–10 mm long) its 10–12 mm long corolla tubes (vs. 2–3 mm long) and its filaments adnate at the middle of corolla tube, styles 12–15 mm long (vs. adnate to the base of corolla tube and styles ca. 3 mm long). The new species is currently known from a single population with approximately 60–100 mature individuals. Following IUCN Criteria, it is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered. Photographs, an illustration and a distribution map are also provided.

Key words: Karst, new species, Ophiorrhiza, Spiradiclis, taxonomy

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis Y.Nong & G.Y.Wei.
A. Habitat; B, C. Flowering plant; D. Stem, showing the linear stipules; E. Inflorescences; F. Fruiting plant; G. Dissected brevistylous flower; H. Dissected longistylous flower; I. Hypanthium, calyx, style and stigma; J. Ovary and calyx; K. Stigma; L. Bracts; M, N. Leaf (abaxially and adaxially); O. Capsule; P. Seeds.

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis Y.Nong & G.Y.Wei, sp. nov.

 

Chinese name. “xīn chéng luó xù cǎo” (忻城螺序草).

Diagnosis. Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis is resembles Ophiorrhiza longanensis (R.J.Wang) Razafim. & Rydin in its densely pubescent stems, linear stipules, terminal or upper axillary inflorescences, but it can be distinguished by its elliptic or oblanceolate leaf blade, base attenuate (vs. oval, ovate to broadly ovate, base cuneate), its 2–3 mm long stipules (vs. 3.8–6.5 mm long), its 3–5 mm long bracteoles (vs. 6–10 mm long), its 10–12 mm long corolla tubes (vs. 2–3 mm long) and its filaments adnate at the middle of corolla tube, styles 12–15 mm long (vs. adnate to the base of corolla tube, styles ca. 3 mm long).

Etymology. The specific epithet “xinchengensis” refers to the type location of the new species.

 Gui-Yuan Wei, Jin-Yue Li, Rong Chen, You Nong, Qi-Min Hu, Ying-Jing Li, Xing-Yun Ji, Chuan-Gui Xu, Yun-Kai Nong. 2026. Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 278: 1-14.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.194094 [24-07-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Ophiorrhiza saxatilis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Guizhou, China

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li,

in Li, An, Wu, Yu, Qiu, Liu et Tan, 2026. 

 岩生蛇根草  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.197480

Abstract

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li, sp. nov., a new species of the genus Ophiorrhiza (Rubiaceae) discovered in the karst regions of Guizhou, China, and provides its taxonomic basis from a morphological perspective. The new species is morphologically similar to Ophiorrhiza lignosa, but differs from the latter by having an inflorescence in that its young branches are uniformly pubescent (vs. bifariously pubescent in O. lignosa); the abaxial leaf surface is pubescent (vs. puberulent only along the midrib and secondary veins in O. lignosa); the bracteoles are 5–6 mm long (vs. 1.5–3 mm long in O. lignosa); the petioles are 2–5.8 mm long (vs. 6–20 mm long in O. lignosa); the stamens are inserted at the base of the corolla tube (vs. inserted near the middle of the corolla tube in O. lignosa); the flowers are distylous (vs. monomorphic with pin flowers in O. lignosa), and the styles of long-styled flowers are 6–8 mm long (vs. 10–11 mm long in O. lignosa). These stable and significant morphological differences, combined with a comprehensive and detailed morphological description of the new species and a comparison of diagnostic characters with similar species, firmly support the recognition of Ophiorrhiza saxatilis as a distinct new species.

Key words: Karst, Morphology, New Taxon, Ophiorrhiza, Rubiaceae

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis.
A, B. Habitat; C. Plant; D. Flowering branch; E. Dissected flowers: long-styled flower (above) and short-styled flower (below); F. Style of long-styled flower; G. Style of short-styled flower; H. Longitudinally dissected short-styled flower; I. Longitudinally dissected long-styled flower; J. Fruit; K. Infructescence; L. Adaxial leaf surface; M. Abaxial leaf surface; N. Branchlets.

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Ophiorrhiza saxatilis is morphologically similar to O. lignosa Merr., but can be distinguished by several key characteristics (Table 2): uniformly pubescent young branches (vs. bifariously pubescent); white corolla lobes with ridges (vs. purple, without ridges); stamens inserted at the base of the corolla tube (vs. inserted near the middle of the corolla tube); flowers distylous (vs. monomorphic, with pin flowers); long-styled flowers 6–8 mm long (vs. 10–11 mm long); purple midrib on the abaxial leaf surface (vs. green); abaxial leaf surface pubescent (vs. puberulent only on the midrib and secondary veins); bracteoles 5–6 mm long (vs. 1.5–3 mm long); and petioles 2–5.8 mm long (vs. 6–20 mm long).

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from the habitat of the new species, which occurs in a typical karst limestone environment. It mainly grows in harsh habitats such as rock crevices and stony slopes.

Local name. Simplified Chinese: 岩生蛇根草;
Chinese Pinyin: yán shēng shé gēn cǎo.

 Guang-Lin Li, Ming-Tai An, Xu Wu, Jiang-Hong Yu, Jian Qiu, Shao-Fei Liu and Cheng-jiang Tan. 2026. Ophiorrhiza saxatilis (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Guizhou, China. PhytoKeys. 278: 27-37.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.197480 [24-07-2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Gekko qiannanensis • A New Karst-adapted Gecko (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from southern Guizhou, China

Gekko (Japonigekko) qiannanensis Huang, Ma, Jiang & Wu,   

in Huang, Ma, Xiao, Zhang, Pu, Ran, Zhu, Jiang et Wu, 2026. 

黔南壁虎  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.189932

Abstract

Karst landscapes, which are characterized by their complex terrain, foster exceptionally high species diversity. During recent field surveys in Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province, China, a new karst-adapted gecko species was discovered. Using an integrative approach combining molecular and morphological analyses, it is described here as Gekko qiannanensis sp. nov. Phylogenetically, it clusters within a well-supported clade of the subgenus Japonigekko that includes the karst-adapted G. fengshanensis, G. liboensis, G. kwangsiensis, G. paucituberculatus, and the dry-hot valley species G. tesselatus. Morphologically, it can be distinguished from all known species in Japonigekko by a combination of the following traits: moderate body size, with snout–vent length 65.4–82.9 mm in adult males and 77.7–91.7 mm in adult females; two enlarged postmentals; nares in contact with the rostral, internasal absent; subdigital lamellae: fourth fingers 14–16, first toes 9–11, and fourth toes 14–17; moderately developed toe webbing, originating proximal to subdigital lamellae; interorbitals 28–38; midbody scale rows 134–155; ventral scale rows 42–49; precloacal pores 10–11 in males; a single postcloacal tubercle on each side; dorsum earth gray, with six dirty-white bands between the nape and sacrum. Notably, the new species can be distinguished from its karst-adapted congeners by its moderately developed toe webbing. The discovery of G. qiannanensis brings the number of recognized species in Japonigekko to 42 globally, of which 28 are now recorded from China. This finding highlights the role of karst habitat fragmentation in driving allopatric speciation and underscores the rich but still incompletely documented herpetofaunal diversity of South China’s karst regions.

Key Words: herpetofauna, integrative taxonomy, new species, phylogeny, toe webbing

Holotype (JSU-HJ2025024, adult male) of Gekko qiannanensis sp. nov. after euthanasia.
 A. Dorsal view of body. B. Ventral view of body. C. Dorsal view of head. D. Ventral view of head. E. Right lateral view of the head. F. Ventral view of right hand. G. Ventral view of left hand. H. Ventral view of right foot. I. Ventral view of left foot. J. Ventral view of precloacal region. K. Right lateral view of basal tail.

Photos by Jie Huang and Yang Xiao. Scale bars: 10 mm.

Egg hatching of Gekko qiannanensis sp. nov.  
A. Discovery of gecko eggs at the corner of the wall, with 14 eggs already hatched and two remaining unhatched. B. Two hatching gecko eggs with attached wall plaster. C. One gecko egg in the process of hatching, side view. D. One gecko egg in the process of hatching, top view. E. The gecko juvenile 13 days after hatching.

Photos by Jie Huang. Scale bar: 10 mm.

Gekko qiannanensis Huang, Ma, Jiang & Wu, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Gekko qiannanensis sp. nov. is assigned to the subgenus Japonigekko according to phylogenetic analysis. It can be distinguished from other congeners in Japonigekko by the following characters: moderate body size: SVL 65.4–82.9 mm in adult males, 77.7–91.7 mm in adult females; two enlarged postmentals; nares in contact with the rostral, internasal absent; subdigital lamellae: fourth fingers 14–16, first toes 9–11, fourth toes 14–17; moderately developed toe webbing, originating proximal to subdigital lamellae; interorbitals 28–38; Midbody scale rows 134–155; ventral scale rows 42–49; precloacal pores 10–11 in males; a single postcloacal tubercle on each side; dorsum earth gray, with six dirty-white bands between nape and sacrum.

Etymology and suggested Chinese and English name. The specific epithet, qiannanensis, is derived from the Chinese pinyin of its type locality in Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. The Chinese name for the new species is suggested as “黔南壁虎” (pinyin: qián nán bì hǔ), and the English is suggested as “Qiannan Gecko.”

 Jie Huang, Shun Ma, Yang Xiao, Fangpeng Zhang, Zhongzhu Pu, Jingcheng Ran, Jingyi Zhu, Wansheng Jiang and Jianpu Wu. 2026. Gekko (Japonigekko) qiannanensis, A New Karst-adapted Gecko (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from southern Guizhou, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(4): 973-987. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.189932 [20-07-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Begonia leasalongae (Begoniaceae, sect. Petermannia) • A New Species from Tago, Surigao del Sur, Mindanao Island, Philippines

Begonia leasalongae  Blasco, Alejandro & Rubite, 

in Blasco, Alejandro, Cortes et Rubite, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.8 

facebook.com: Freddie A. Blasco

 Abstract

A new species of Begonia section Petermannia, Begonia leasalongae, from Surigao del Sur is described and illustrated. It grows on shady, moist, rocky slopes alongside a small creek in sitio Cabugi, Unidos, Tago, Surigao del Sur. The new species resembles Begonia noraaunoriae in having erect stems, obovately oblong leaves, 2-tepaled staminate flowers, 5-tepaled pistillate flowers and an upright capsule, but differs in having stems with setose white hairs (vs. glabrous), lanceolate stipules with an aristate apex (vs. obovately oblong with a roundly acute apex), and capsule with setose white hairs (vs. glabrous). The species is named in honor of Lea Salonga. Based on IUCN criteria, we propose its conservation status as Data Deficient (DD), as only one population is currently known.

Begonia agusanensis, Begonia noraaunoriae, flora, setose, Taxonomy, Eudicots, Caraga Region, Surigao provinces, vascular flora

Begonia leasalongae Blasco, Alejandro & Rubite 

FREDDIE A. BLASCO, GRECEBIO JONATHAN D. ALEJANDRO, JUNELITO C. CORTES and ROSARIO R. RUBITE. 2026. Begonia leasalongae (Section Petermannia, Begoniaceae), A New Species from Tago, Surigao del Sur, Mindanao Island, Philippines. Phytotaxa. 767(1); 72-76. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.8 [2026-07-16]

facebook.com/fred8z/posts/1082141397717282

  facebook.com/fred8z/posts/1082141354383953

[Botany • 2022] Gentiana ranae (Gentianaceae) • A New Species from Himachal Pradesh, India revealed by morphology and molecular phylogeny

Gentiana ranae M.Shabir & M.D.Dwivedi, 

in Shabir, Pal, Dwivedi et Tiwari, 2022.

 Rheedea. 32(1);  

rheedea.in/IAAT/article/view/898 

 

Abstract 

A new species of the genus Gentiana, G. ranae sp. nov., from Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh (India) is described here. The species shows morphological resemblances with G. glauca Pall. and G. venusta Wall. of sect. Monopodiae, but differs in key morphological characters such as a stem with 4–6 fine lines, upper stem leaves more densely enveloping the inflorescence, a light blue corolla with margins of the corolla lobes scabrous to crenulate, horizontally truncate plicae, dentate to erose margins, and ovate to sub-orbicularseeds. Along with the morphological characters the species is supported as a new member of sect. Monopodiae in a molecular phylogenetic analyses using the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and chloroplast trnL-F intergenic-spacer regions. The species is described, illustrated and discussed.

Keywords: cpDNA trnL-F, Gentiana glauca, nrDNA ITS, sect. Monopodiae, western Himalaya

 

Gentiana ranae M.Shabir & M.D.Dwivedi:
b. Flowering plant; c. Habit; d. Seeds

 (Photos by Mohd Shabir).

Gentiana ranae M.Shabir & M.D.Dwivedi: a. Habitat

 (Photos by Mohd Shabir).

Gentiana ranae sp. nov.

Shabir M., Pal A.K., Dwivedi M.D. and J.K. Tiwari. 2022. Gentiana ranae (Gentianaceae), A New Species from India revealed by morphology and molecular phylogeny.  Rheedea. 32(1); 30-45. DOI: 10.22244/rheedea.2022.32.01.01 https://rheedea.in/IAAT/article/view/898 

 

[Entomology • 2026] Scymnus tshunsii • The First termitophilous Ladybird Beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from Microcerotermes Nests in Thailand

 

  Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii Seki, Liang & Maruyama, 

in Seki, Liang , Hasin, Chiu et Maruyama, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.14411/eje.2026.017  

Termite nests host diverse symbiotic arthropods (termitophiles), many of which exhibit specialized morphological and behavioral adaptations to life within termite colonies. While numerous beetle families include well-known termitophiles, an association with termites has not yet been recorded in the family Coccinellidae (ladybird beetles). Here, we report the discovery of Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii Seki, Liang & Maruyama, sp. n., based on adults and larvae collected from nests of Microcerotermes crassus Snyder, 1934, in Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, with additional adults captured at light traps. Although the adult morphology is typical for free-living Scymnini, the larva exhibits a highly unusual, soft-bodied, glabrous body form closely resembling termite workers - an apparent case of convergent evolution also seen in termitophilous rove beetles, scarabs, and phorid flies. The stark contrast between adult and larval morphology suggests stage-specific adaptations, with larvae more intimately integrated into the termite nest environment. Collecting adults at light traps indicates nocturnal dispersal, likely to locate new host colonies. This discovery represents the first confirmed termitophilous ladybird beetle and indicates that termite nests may support previously unrecognized ecological associations within Coccinellidae.

 

Keywords: New species, predators, Scymnini, taxonomy, termite

  Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii sp. n.
1 – dorsal view; 2 – ventral view; 3 – lateral view;
4 – alive, lateral view; 5 – alive, ventral view.

Habitat of Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii sp. n.
 32–34 – Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii sp. n. (32 – adult; 33–34 – larvae); 35 – soldier of Microcerotermes crassus Snyder, 1934;
36 – forest environment; 37 – mound of Microcerotermes crassus Snyder, 1934.

 

Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii Seki, Liang & Maruyama sp. n. 

 

Diagnosis. Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii sp. n. is similar in external coloration to many species of Scymnini (e.g., Sasaji, 1971; Chen et al., 2015a, b; Wang & Chen, 2022), but can be readily distinguished by the structure of the genitalia. This species is placed in the subgenus Pullus Mulsant, 1846 based on the combination of the following characters: antennae composed of 11 antennomeres, prosternal process with well-developed lateral carinae, abdominal postcoxal lines recurved and complete, and female genitalia with a distinct infundibulum (Chen et al., 2015a). Chen et al. (l.c.) divided the subgenus Scymnus (Pullus) from mainland China and Taiwan into S. hingstoni, S. subvillosus, S. impexus, S. perdere, and S. sodalis groups. The new species lacks a prominent dorsal keel on the penis guide of ...

Etymology. The species is named after Tshun-Sî, the son of Wei-Ren Liang, the second author. His name, meaning “sowing in spring,” reflects the hope for the flourishing of future studies on termitophily in Thailand following this groundbreaking discovery. 

Distribution. Thailand (Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima)  

Ryōta SEKI, Wei-Ren LIANG, Sasitorn HASIN, Chun-I CHIU and Munetoshi MARUYAMA. 2026. The First termitophilous Ladybird Beetle: Scymnus (Pullus) tshunsii sp. n. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from Microcerotermes nests in Thailand. Eur. J. Entomol. 123: 165-174. DOI: doi.org/10.14411/eje.2026.017  [May 14, 2026]

[Fungi • 2026] Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata • Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Pleurocordyceps (Hypocreales: Polycephalomycetaceae) associated with Ants and Cicadas from Malaysia, including A New Species and New Records

  

Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata 

in Shahbaz, Mohadden, Rong, Wei et Seelan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.4.1

 

Abstract

Pleurocordyceps is a group of hyperparasites that infects invertebrates, plants, and other fungi. It belongs to the family Polycephalomycetaceae, a newly established family separated from Ophiocordycipitaceae, order Hypocreales which includes several genera such as Dingleyomyces, Paradingleyomyces, Perennicordyceps, Pleurocordyceps, and Polycephalomyces. Pleurocordyceps currently comprises 26 species reported from South American and Asian regions In Asia, Malaysia has diverse forest ecosystems and rich fungal diversity; however, no previous studies have been reported on the occurrence of Pleurocordyceps species. The aim of the study is to explore the Pleurocordyceps diversity tropical rainforests of Malaysia using morpho-molecular analyses. During a fungal survey in Malaysia, fungicolous fungus associated with ants and cicadas nymphs were collected and subjected to morphological and molecular assessments. Two genetic loci—the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF-1α) gene—were used to construct both individual and concatenated phylogenetic trees. The study describes a new species, Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata sp. nov. (BORH/F03651) from an ant, and two new records of P. aurantiaca (BORH/F03651), and P. nipponica (UTHM-CEF003.1) from Diptera and cicada nymph, respectively. These findings expand the knowledge of the geographic distribution of Pleurocordyceps and provide the first baseline data for the genus in Malaysia, thereby improving understanding of the diversity and evolutionary relationships within Polycephalomycetaceae.

arthropod hosts, entomopathogenic fungi, Pleurocordyceps, synnema, three taxa, typification, Fungi

Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata sp. nov. 

MUHAMMAD SHAHBAZ, FIRDZA ZULKARNAIN MOHADDEN, JEREMIAH SIA YIAO RONG, YAP JING WEI and JAYA SEELAN SATHIYA SEELAN. 2026. Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Pleurocordyceps (Polycephalomycetaceae, Hypocreales) associated with Ants and Cicadas from Malaysia, including A New Species and New Records.  Phytotaxa. 750(4); 219-237. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.4.1 [2026-04-09]

[Fungi • 2026] Leptobacillium geminatum • A New Species of Leptobacillium and Additional Records of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium (Ascomycota: Cordycipitaceae) from Sabah, Malaysia

Leptobacillium geminatum

in Shahbaz, De Wint, Rong, Wei, Koid, Fayle, Tan, Abdullah, Palaniveloo et Seelan, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/nzb2.70107 

Abstract

Simplicillium and Leptobacillium are entomopathogenic fungal genera frequently associated with arthropods in tropical ecosystems and considered promising candidates for biological pest control. However, the diversity of these genera in tropical regions, particularly in Malaysia, has not been systematically investigated in the context of their taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships. This study aimed to investigate the taxonomic diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium using integrated morphological and molecular analyses. During a survey of entomopathogenic fungi conducted in Malaysia from 2022–2023, parasitized insects were collected, including spiders and wasps infected by entomopathogenic fungi. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using concatenated datasets of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) gene to construct phylogenetic trees. The study identified one novel species, Leptobacillium geminatum sp. nov., isolated from a spider. In addition, five species are reported here as new records for Malaysia: S. formicae, L. leptobactrum. symbioticum, and L. coffeanum isolated from spiders and S. puwenense, isolated from a wasp. Morphological characteristics together with molecular phylogenetic evidence supported the taxonomic placement of these taxa. These findings represent the first comprehensive documentation of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium species from Malaysia, significantly expanding the known diversity and geographical distribution of these entomopathogenic fungi in Southeast Asia.

Keywords: concatenation, fungal diversity, morphology, Northern Borneo, taxonomy

 Leptobacillium geminatum sp. nov.

Muhammad Shahbaz, Frederik C. De Wint, Jeremiah Sia Yiao Rong, Yap Jing Wei, Qian-Qun Koid, Tom Fayle, Yee Shin Tan, Sumaiyah Abdullah, Kishneth Palaniveloo, Jaya Seelan Sathiya Seelan. 2026. A New Species of Leptobacillium and Additional Records of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium from Sabah, Malaysia. New Zealand Journal of Botany. 64(2); DOI: doi.org/10.1002/nzb2.70107 [02 June 2026] 

[Botany • 2026] Argostemma baotingense (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Hainan Island, South China

 

Argostemma baotingense S.P.Dong & H.B.Yang, 

 in Dong, Yuan, Wang et Yang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195404 

Abstract

Argostemma baotingense, a new species of Rubiaceae from Hainan Island, southern China, is described. This new species resembles A. bachmaense but can be distinguished by its suberect or creeping stem, linear leaves with a greenish-white abaxial surface, white and glabrous inflorescence, and glabrous calyx. An identification key and photographs of the nine Argostemma species in China are provided.

Key words: Argostemma, new species, taxonomy

Argostemma baotingense.
A. Plant in natural habitat; B. Flowering plant; C. Flowers; D. Calyx; E. Leafy branch, adaxial view; F. Leafy branch, abaxial view; G. Leaves, adaxial view; H. Leaves, abaxial view; I, J. A node with opposite leaves and stipules; K. Flower, apical view; L. Flower, bottom view; M, N. Inflorescence; O. Androecium; P. Pistil.

Argostemma baotingense S.P.Dong & H.B.Yang, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The new species is morphologically similar to A. bachmaense T.V.Do but differs by the suberect or creeping stem (vs. erect), the linear leaves (vs. oblanceolate to spatulate), glabrous inflorescence (vs. pubescent), glabrous calyx (vs. pubescent). A detailed morphological comparison between the two species is provided in Table 1. Photographs of seven Argostemma species in China have been provided (Fig. 2). A key to all the nine species of Argostemma in China is also provided at the end of the text.

Shu-Peng Dong, Lang-Xing Yuan, Qing-Long Wang and Hu-Biao Yang. 2026. Argostemma baotingense (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Hainan Island, South China. PhytoKeys. 276: 253-260. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195404   [18 Jun 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Leptogenys distincta & L. gastrolucida • Two New Species of Ant Genus Leptogenys (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from India, with an updated key to the known Oriental species

Leptogenys distincta  
 Leptogenys gastrolucida

Baidwan, Kapoor & Bharti, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2026.2657496

 

ABSTRACT

Two new species of the genus Leptogenys are described based on the worker caste, namely Leptogenys distincta sp. n. and Leptogenys gastrolucida sp. n. from India. The male of L. gastrolucida sp. n. is also reported and described. An updated dichotomous key to the 60 known species of Leptogenys from the Oriental region is provided.

 

KEYWORDS: Taxonomy, Indo-Burma, biodiversity, description

 

 Leptogenys distincta sp. n.  

Leptogenys gastrolucida sp. n.  

Parvinder Singh Baidwan, Rakeshwar Kapoor and Himender Bharti. 2026. Two New Species of Ant Genus Leptogenys (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from India, with an updated key to the known Oriental species. Journal of Natural History. 60(25-28); 1357-1397. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2026.2657496 [08 Jun 2026] 

[Botany • 2026] Begonia thanhquyetii (Begoniaceae, sect. Petermannia) • A New Species from Quang Tri province, Central Vietnam

Begonia thanhquyetii  C.H. Nguyen, T.A. Le & C.W. Lin,

in Duong, C. H. Nguyen, Le, Bui, Dinh, Dang, Y. T. Nguyen, Tran, T. H. Nguyen, Averyanov et Lin, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.762.2.8 

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Abstract

Begonia thanhquyetii, a new species from central Vietnam, is herein described and illustrated. It is morphologically most similar to B. baik in its creeping habit, rugose ovate leaves, and protogynous inflorescences. However, it differs in several key morphological characters, including stipules hirsute on the abaxial surface (vs. glabrous), bracts lacking glandular hairs along the margins (vs. glandular-ciliate), a pair of bracteoles present near the apex of the pistillate pedicel (vs. bracteoles absent), abaxial tepals of both staminate and pistillate flowers hirsute (vs. glabrous), and densely hirsute ovary (vs. glabrous). Following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (Version 16), B. thanhquyetii is provisionally assessed as Least Concern (LC), pending further field surveys to clarify its distribution and population status.

Eudicots, biodiversity, endemism, Flora of Vietnam, Indochina, taxonomy

Begonia thanhquyetii sp. nov.

 

NAM VAN DUONG, CUONG HUU NGUYEN, ANH TUAN LE, DOI THE BUI, DIEN DINH, HA VAN DANG, YEN THI NGUYEN, HUNG THE TRAN, TUAN HOANG NGUYEN, LEONID V. AVERYANOV and CHE WEI LIN. 2026. Begonia thanhquyetii (B. sect. Petermannia, Begoniaceae), A New Species from Quang Tri province, Central Vietnam.  Phytotaxa. 762(2); 177-184. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.762.2.8 [2026-06-16] 

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