[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

[Ichthyology • 2026] Chromis veneta • Resolving Cryptic Diversity in the Chromis viridis species complex (Blenniiformes: Pomacentridae): a multilocus phylogenetic and morphometric reassessment of species boundaries

 

Chromis veneta 

Rekha, Jayakumar, Abhilash, Ahamed Rasheeq, Saikrishnan, Vallarasu, Gladston, Chakraborty & Ajithkumar, 2026

  

DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2026.1922804

Abstract

The blue-green damselfish, Chromis viridis (Cuvier, 1830), is widely distributed across Indo-Pacific coral reefs and is among the most heavily traded marine ornamental fishes. Recent molecular studies have suggested the presence of cryptic diversity within the C. viridis complex, but species boundaries remain unresolved. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses incorporating three mitochondrial markers—cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), cytochrome b (cytb), and the mitochondrial control region (D-loop)—and two nuclear markers, recombination-activating gene 1 (RAG1) and recombination-activating gene 2 (RAG2), were performed to assess lineage diversification within the Chromis viridis species complex. Specimens collected from the Lakshadweep Archipelago and the Gulf of Mannar, India, formed a distinct and well-supported lineage that was clearly separated from C. viridis sensu stricto and other congeners in phylogenetic reconstructions and genetic distance analyses. Multiple species-delimitation approaches consistently supported the recognition of this lineage as an independently evolving taxon, and morphometric analyses revealed corresponding differences in body proportions and meristic characters. Based on the concordance of molecular and morphological evidence, a new species, Chromis veneta sp. nov., is herein described from the Indian Ocean. The new species differs from C. viridis in having a relatively elongate body, narrower caudal peduncle, distinctive body pigmentation, yellowish to orangish distal fin margins, and a deeply forked caudal fin with elongate lobe tips. Additional diagnostic features include differences in dentition, gill-raker counts and sagittal otolith morphology. The discovery of C. veneta sp. nov. highlights underestimated diversity within the C. viridis complex and underscores the importance of integrative taxonomy in revealing cryptic reef-fish diversity.

Keywords: Chromis veneta sp. nov., Chromis viridis complex, cryptic species diversity, species delimitation, multilocus phylogenetics, integrative taxonomy, morphometric analysis, Pomacentridae

 

Chromis veneta sp. nov., freshly collected holotype, NBFGR/POMCVEN, 52.0 mm SL, Agatti Island.

Caption Male of Chromis veneta sp. nov. (64.51 mm SL) in live breeding coloration.

Chromis veneta sp. nov. in its natural coral reef habitat at Agatti Island, Lakshadweep, associated with branching Acropora corals and occurring sympatrically with Chromis viridis, Pomacentrus pavo, and Dascyllus aruanus.

Chromis veneta sp. nov.

 Diagnosis: Chromis veneta sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: dorsal-fin rays XII, 9–10 (usually 10); anal-fin rays II, 9–10 (usually 10); pectoral-fin rays 16–17 (usually 17); pelvic-fin rays I, 5; principal caudal-fin rays 8 + 7; spiniform caudal rays 3; tubed lateral-line scales 15–16; gill rakers 9–10 + 23–26 (usually 9 + 24), total 33–35 (usually 33); body depth 2.27–2.56 in SL; caudal-peduncle depth 0.63–0.77 in head length; and caudal-peduncle length 0.51–0.73 in head length. In life, the body is bright aquamarine-green with a subtle iridescent blue-green sheen. Each scale on the upper and middle flanks is narrowly edged with yellow-green, forming a fine reticulate pattern that becomes more conspicuous under illumination. The ventral surface is pale silvery white. A diffuse black patch is present at the upper base of the pectoral fin and is more conspicuous in live specimens. A fine, continuous blue-green stripe extends from the tip of the snout to the anterior margin of the orbit. Reproductively active individuals further exhibit distinct yellowish to amber pigmentation along the distal margins of the dorsal and anal fins.

Etymology: The specific epithet, veneta is derived from the Latin venetus, meaning “sea-blue” or “azure,” referring to the characteristic of blue green to turquoise coloration exhibited by the species in live condition. The name is treated as an adjective in agreement with the generic name Chromis.

 

M. U. Rekha, Teena Jayakumar T. K., Abhilash C. P. Ahamed Rasheeq A., Saikrishnan K. R., Vallarasu R., Gladston Y., Kajal Chakraborty and Ajithkumar T. T. 2026. Resolving Cryptic Diversity in the Chromis viridis species complex (Pomacentridae): a multilocus phylogenetic and morphometric reassessment of species boundaries. Front. Mar. Sci. 13; 1922804. DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2026.1922804 [04 September 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Philautus candrageni • Revisiting the Taxonomy of Javan Philautus (Anura: Rhacophoridae), with the Description of A New Species

Philautus candrageni   

 Herlambang, Gonggoli, Racho, Asti, Cahyadi, Atmaja, Fauzi, Eprilurahman & Hamidy, 2026 

  

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5768.1.2   

 Researchgate.net/publication/401693573

Abstract 

The genus Philautus comprises 52 recognized species, three of which are currently known from Java and are endemic to the island. We conducted extensive fieldwork across Central Java between 2017 and 2025 to reassess the taxonomy of Philautus in this understudied region. We clarified species boundaries and uncovered cryptic diversity within this genus by employing an integrative framework that combined morphological assessments, molecular phylogenetics, and bioacoustic analyses. Our results include a redescription of P. jacobsoni and the formal description of a newly identified montane species, Philautus candrageni sp. nov., from Mount Merapi. We also provide further insights into the taxonomic status of Philautus pallidipes. These findings reveal considerable taxonomic complexity and previously overlooked diversity within Java’s montane amphibian assemblages. They also underscore the importance of sustained integrative research and advocate for targeted conservation efforts for Philautus species across the island. 

Amphibia, Conservation, cryptic, endemic, Java, mountain

Live specimen of the paratypes of Philautus candrageni sp. nov. from Mount Merapi:
(A, B) Dorsal and ventral ofMzB 33679 (male), (C, D) Dorsal and ventral of MzB 33678 (male), (E, F) Dorsal and ventral of MzB Amph 33677 (male).

Photos by Hastin Ambar Asti. 

Philautus candrageni sp. nov.

Etymology. We use the ancient name of Mount Merapi, “Candrageni”, as the species name. According to Serat Pustaka Raja Purwa, a classical javanese manuscript, written by R. Ng. Ranggawarsita, Mount Merapi was originally called Candrageni before it was renamed by Prabu Kusumawicitra during his reign over java. the name Candrageni is believed to reflect Merapi’s fiery and mystical nature, possibly derived from the words “Candra” (moon) and “Geni” (fire), symbolizing a balance between celestial energy and volcanic power. We believe that the presence of Philautus candrageni sp. nov. on Mount Merapi represents the biocultural harmony of this volcanic landscape

.Suggested English common name. Merapi Bush Frog.

Suggested Indonesian common name. Katak-semak Merapi 

Alamsyah Elang Nusa HERLAMBANG, Ade Damara GONGGOLI, Asrael RACHO, Hastin Ambar ASTI, Ganjar CAHYADI, Vestidhia Y. ATMAJA, Muhammad Alif FAUZI, Rury EPRILURAHMAN and Amir  HAMIDY. 2026. Revisiting the Taxonomy of Javan Philautus (Anura: Rhacophoridae), with the Description of A New Species.  Zootaxa. 5768(1); 29-56. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5768.1.2 [2026-03-09]

 Researchgate.net/publication/401693573_Revisiting_the_Taxonomy_of_Javan_Philautus_with_the_Description_of_a_New_Species

[Cnidaria • 2026] Chironex blakangmati • Chironex box jellyfishes (Cubozoa: Chirodropida) in Singapore: New Species, and Range Extension of C. indrasaksajiae

Chironex blakangmati

Iesa, Ames, Yap & Huang, 2026 

 RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 74

Abstract

 Two venomous box jellyfish species of the genus Chironex Southcott, 1956 (Cnidaria: Cubozoa: Chirodropida) were collected from Singapore’s coastal waters: Chironex indrasaksajiae Sucharitakul, 2017 and a novel species described herein as Chironex blakangmati, new species. Chironex indrasaksajiae was collected from both the Johor and Singapore Straits around mainland Singapore. Chironex blakangmati, new species, was collected from Sentosa Island along the Singapore Strait and is the fourth species described in the genus. While C. blakangmati’s volcano-shaped pedalial canal and tentacle number are similar to C. yamaguchii Lewis & Bentlage, 2009, its elongated, sharp-tipped velarial canals and DNA sequences distinguish it from other Chironex species. Comparisons of Chironex blakangmati, new species, with C. yamaguchii and C. fleckeri reveal novel morphological differences at the terminal end of the perradial lappet along the velarium edge, where C. blakangmati, new species, lacks velarial canals extending from the perradial lappet terminus. Juvenile Chironex yamaguchii specimens were examined and ontogenetic variations of velarial canals are herein reported. Preliminary cnidome analysis reveals eight types of nematocysts observed in C. blakangmati, new species, five types in C. indrasaksajiae, and five types in C. yamaguchii. Molecular phylogenetic reconstruction places C. blakangmati, new species, in a clade distinct from its congeners, as sister group to C. yamaguchii based on 16S rRNA gene analysis but diverging earlier than the clade comprising C. yamaguchii and C. indrasaksajiae based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene analysis for which sequence data are comparatively limited. Understanding the biodiversity and seasonality of venomous cubomedusae will help mitigate the risk they pose to human health and safety during maritime activities. 

Key words. 16S rRNA, COI barcoding, marine biodiversity, phylogenetic analysis, Southeast Asia, venomous

Chironex blakangmati, new species, from Singapore.
A, live individual (paratype, ZRC.CNI.1462), lateral perradius view; B, live individual (holotype, ZRC.CNI.3014), lateral perradius view; C, cockscomb gastric saccule (sac); D, gastric cirri (gc); E, rhopalial niche front view; F, rhopalial niche side view (paratype, ZRC.CNI.1462); G, rhopalial niche side view (holotype, ZRC.CNI.3014); H, tentacle contracted with alternating brown dark bands; I, tentacle stretched; J, preserved tentacle with hollow cross section (arrow); K, pedalium with volcano pedalial canal bend (pcb) marked by arrow; L, U-shaped alternating tentacle pattern with gap marked by an arrow; M, adradial positions (ad) marked by arrows, and rhopalial niche at perradial position (per); N, gastric saccules (sac) surrounding cruciform manubrium (man); O, velarium at perradial position with frenulum (fre) arrowed, lappet terminating in simple triangular tip; P, velarium with candelabrum velarial canal pattern (holotype, ZRC.CNI.3014). rh = rhopalium, rhO = rhopalial ostium, co = convex boundary.

Chironex blakangmati, new species 

Diagnosis. Chironex with conical to cuboidal bell. Seven tentacles per pedalium, branching U-shaped alternating. Pedalial canal bend volcano shaped. Tips of velarial canals sharp towards velarial margin (Fig. 11D), with simple triangular tip at edge of velarium in perradial position (Fig. 3O & Fig. 12). Absence of velarial canals at perradial position where frenulum tapers off (Fig. 12D). 

Etymology. This species is named using Bahasa Melayu, the Austronesian language spoken in the region and the national language of Singapore, for Sentosa Island from which the animal was collected. Sentosa Island was historically referred to as “Pulau Blakang Mati”, meaning “Island of Death Behind” and, as such, “blakangmati” in denoting the geographic location is a noun in apposition. 

Iffah Iesa, Cheryl Lewis Ames, Nicholas Wei Liang Yap and Danwei Huang. 2026. Chironex box jellyfishes (Cnidaria: Cubozoa: Chirodropida) in Singapore: Chironex blakangmati, new species, and range extension of C. indrasaksajiae. RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 74: 383–402. DOI: 10.26107/RBZ-2026-0026 [15 May 2026]

[Entomology • 2026] Methocha haaksek, M. hongkongensis, ... • The Methocha (Hymenoptera: Thynnidae: Methochinae) of Hong Kong (China), A Preliminary Faunal List with Descriptions of Five New Species and Sexual Associations rendered through Molecular Analysis

 

A. Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
B & C. M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
 D. M. leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
 E. M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 
 F. M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

in Barthélémy, Terayama, Poon et Sin. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1043.3213 

Abstract

Five new species of Methocha Latreille, 1804 are described from Hong Kong: two species based on females only, Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. and Methocha leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.; two on males only, M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. and M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.; and one with females and males associated through molecular analysis, M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. A key to species and a phylogenetic tree of Methocha occurring in the Hong Kong SAR are provided.

Keywords: Thynnoidea, morphometrics, Cicindelinae, DNA barcoding, phylogenetic

Holotypes and paratypes, lateral habitus.
A. Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♀, M459.D.Hy.1, CASC. B. M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♀, M364.C.Hy.2, CASC. C. M. hongkongensis, paratype, ♂, M561CHY3, CBC. D. ♀, M. leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♂, M099.C.Hy.2, CASC.
E. M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., holotype, ♂, M060.C.Hy.4, CASC. F. M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov., paratype, ♂, M321.E.Hy.4B, CBC.

Methocha haaksek Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

M. hongkongensis Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

M. leleji Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.; 

M. wilsoni Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov. 

M. zetetes Barthélémy & Terayama sp. nov.

 Christophe Barthélémy, Mamoru Terayama, Emily Shui Kei Poon and Simon Yung Wa Sin. 2026. The Methocha (Hymenoptera: Thynnidae: Methochinae) of Hong Kong (China), A Preliminary Faunal List with Descriptions of Five New Species and Sexual Associations rendered through Molecular Analysis. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1043(1); 118–151. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1043.3213 

[Herpetology • 2026] Sphenomorphus tophus • A New endemic Forest Skink (Squamata: Scincidae: Sphenomorphus) from the sandstone ecosystem of the Khorat Plateau, Thailand

 

Sphenomorphus tophus  

Grismer, Pawangkhanant, Naiduangchan, Grismer, Dugdale, Pierce, Quah, Suwannapoom & Poyarkov. 2026

 Khorat Plateau Forest Skink | จิ้งเหลนภูเขาหินทราย  ||  https://www.taprobanica.org 

Researchgate.net/publication/400821972

Abstract

A new Forest Skink, belonging to the Sphenomorphus stellatus complex, was discovered in the unique forested sandstone ecosystem of the Khorat Plateau in northeastern Thailand. This new skink was recovered as the sister species to the other Indochinese skinks, S. phuquocensis + S. annamiticus, based on a phylogeny using 1,184 base pairs of 12S and 16S. A multiple factor analysis (MFA) based on a concatenated dataset comprised of size-corrected morphometric, meristic, and color pattern characters revealed this species’ isolated position in morphospace with respect to all other species in the S. stellatus complex. This is the fourth endemic lizard species reported from the Khorat Plateau and adds to a growing list of endemic species across a broad range of taxa. As such, this region desperately needs legal protection and increased field-based systematic research to uncover more unrealized species on this plateau in need of description and protection.

Keywords: Indochina, integrative taxonomy, lizard, Reptilia, Sphenomorphinae, systematics

Sphenomorphus tophus sp. nov. holotype (ZMMU Re-18274):
(A) ventral view of the full body in life; (B) dorsal, (C) ventral, and (D) lateral (right) view of the head; (E) ventral view of the right foot; (F) ventral view of the left hand; © Photo: N. Poyarkov.

Sphenomorphus tophus sp. nov. holotype (ZMMU Re-18274):
(A) dorsal and (B) ventral views of the full body ( Photo: N. Poyarkov); (C) Left dorsolateral view in life (© Photo: P. Pawangkhanant)

Uncatalogued specimens of Sphenomorphus tophus sp. nov. in their microhabitats in ..., Khon Kaen District, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand:
(A) an adult emerging from a hole in the sandstone; (B) a juvenile on a sandstone ridge (© Photo: I. Dugdale); (C) an adult crawling down the vertical sandstone surface (Photo: A. Pierce); (D) an adult on the side of a tree (Photo I. Dugdale)

Sphenomorphus tophus sp. nov.

Diagnosis. At this juncture, Sphenomorphus tophus sp. nov. is separated from all other species of the S. stellatus complex by having the unique combination of a maximum adult SVL of 75.4 mm; head, body, and supracaudal scales smooth; frontal scale not divided; prefrontals not in contact; parietals in contact posterior to interparietal; parietals not divided; six scales bordering the parietals; four nuchals; four supraoculars; two loreals; anterior loreal not divided; loreals in contact with supralabials; no postnasal groove; eight superciliaries; superciliary row not interrupted by fourth supraocular; lower eyelid scales large; seven supralabials; seven infralabials; three pairs of chinshields; one primary temporal scale; two secondary temporals; upper secondary temporal large; no subtemporals; 25 midbody scale rows; 63 paravertebrals; paravertebrals slightly wider than other dorsals; 68 ventrals; two enlarged ...

Etymology. The specific epithet ‘tophus’ is a Latin noun given in apposition, meaning “sandstone,” “porous rock”. The name is given in reference to the natural history of the new species, in that it is the only member of the S. stellatus group known to date that is strictly associated with sandstone habitats. 

Suggested common names: Khorat Plateau Forest Skink (in English), จิ้งเหลนภูเขาหินทราย (Jing lhen phu khao hin saii, in Thai), and Коратский древесный сцинк (Koratskiy drevesnyi stsink, in Russian).

  

\

L. Lee Grismer, Parinya Pawangkhanant, Mali Naiduangchan, Jesse L. Grismer, Ian Dugdale, Andrew Pierce, Evan S.H. Quah, Chatmongkon Suwannapoom and Nikolay A. Poyarkov. 2026. A New endemic Forest Skink (Squamata; Scincidae; Sphenomorphus) from the sandstone ecosystem of the Khorat Plateau, Thailand.  TAPROBANICA: The Journal of Asian Biodiversity 15(01):1-11. DOI: 10.47605/tapro.v14i1.396 [16 February 2026]

 https://www.taprobanica.org/Archives/volume-15-20-2026-31/volume-15-number-1-2026/v14i1-396.html

 Researchgate.net/publication/400821972_A_new_endemic_Sphenomorphus_from_the_sandstone_ecosystem_of_the_Khorat_Plateau_Thailand

  facebook.com/100088301342746/posts/889557520664285

[Herpetology • 2026] Amolops guangzhouensis • A New Species of Amolops Cope, 1865 (Anura: Ranidae) from central Guangdong, China

Amolops guangzhouensis  

Song, F.-X. Wang, Qi, H.-T. Wang, Lyu, Cai, Zhu, Zhong, Liu & Y.-Y. Wang, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5750.2.8

 

Abstract

In this study, a new species of the genus Amolops (Anura, Ranidae), Amolops guangzhouensis sp. nov., is described based on six type specimens collected from Conghua District, Guangzhou City, and adjacent Longmen County, Huizhou City, in Guangdong Province, China. The molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on two mitochondrial DNA fragments (16S and COI), places the new species as an independent evolutionary lineage within the A. daiyunensis group. The morphometric statistical analysis and morphological comparison also distinguish the new species from all other congeners. This species can be differentiated from those close relatives by dorsal surface pattern, tiny translucent white spinules across skin, indistinct supernumerary tubercle below fingers, prominent tarsal gland and tarsal fold, and nuptial pad coloration. The discovery of this new species adds to the growing diversity of this genus and represents the westernmost distribution occurrence of the A. daiyunensis group, implying the species diversity of Amolops in southeastern China might still be underestimated.

Amphibia, Amolops daiyunensis group, Amolops guangzhouensis sp. nov., Guangzhou, principal components analysis, torrent frog

  The holotype of Amolops guangzhouensis sp. nov. (SYS a009405, male) in life:
(A) dorsolateral view; (B) opisthenar surface of left hand, showing the feature of the nuptial pad and nuptial spines; (C) dorsal view; (D) ventral view; (E) ventral surface of right hand; (F) ventral surface of left foot.

Photos by Shuo Qi.

Amolops guangzhouensis sp. nov. in situ:
 (A) the male paratype CIB 119033; (B) uncaptured individuals at the type locality.

Photos by Han-Ming Song and Dan-Yang Zhou.

Amolops guangzhouensis sp. nov.

HAN-MING SONG, FU-XUAN WANG, SHUO QI, HAO-TIAN WANG, ZHI-TONG LYU, YAO-YU CAI, YUN-SHENG ZHU, QI-FENG ZHONG, YANG LIU and YING-YONG WANG. 2026. A New Species of Amolops Cope, 1865 (Anura, Ranidae) from central Guangdong, China.  Zootaxa. 5750(2); 267-293. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5750.2.8 [2026-01-20]

Researchgate.net/publication/400040586_A_new_species_of_Amolops_from_central_Guangdong_China

[Ichthyology • 2025] Psalidodon terezinhae, P. velhochico & P. paiva • Unraveling a 150-Year-Old Enigma: Psalidodon rivularis (Characiformes: Acestrorhamphidae: Acestrorhampinae), a Species Complex or a Polymorphic Species

 (a, b) Psalidodon terezinhae 
 (c, d) h  P. velhochico 
 (e, f) P. paiva  

Rodrigues-Oliveira, Assis, Pimente, Soares, Silva, Rocha, Menegidio, Pasa & Kavalco, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/biology14121793

Abstract

Psalidodon rivularis, a fish endemic to the São Francisco River Basin and known as “piaba do córrego,” has long been regarded as a widely distributed species complex, exhibiting remarkable morphological and cytogenetic variation, even in sympatry. This study aims to determine whether P. rivularis represents a single polymorphic species or a group of cryptic species. We analyzed meristic, morphometric, and karyotypic data from 419 specimens identified as P. rivularis, as well as from the related species Astyanax turmalinensis and Hyphessobrycon santae. Additionally, we inferred the phylogeny of the group using NGS data from 25 individuals, incorporating both mitochondrial and nuclear genomic sequences. Our integrative results support the recognition of at least five distinct species within the P. rivularis complex. The true P. rivularis (called morphotype 1) has 46 chromosomes, while the others have 50 and differ in both morphology and distribution. One of these corresponds to Psalidodon santae comb. nov.—which includes A. turmalinensis as a junior synonym—and three others are newly described species. These findings clarify the diversity of fishes in the São Francisco River Basin and highlight the importance of conserving its unique freshwater ecosystems.

Keywords: cytotypes; cryptic species; phylogenomics; morphometrics

Psalidodon terezinhae (a) holotype, LaGEEvo 27-4521, 53.0 mm SL, Lage stream, Abaeté River drainage and (b) LaGEEvo 35-529, 45.0 mm SL, Funchal River, Indaiá River drainage.
  P. velhochico (c) holotype, LaGEEvo 28-5079, 77.0 mm SL, Rasga Canga Waterfall, São Francisco River drainage and (d) LaGEEvo 51-4999, 75.0 mm SL, Casca d’Anta Waterfall, São Francisco River drainage.
P. paiva (e) holotype, LaGEEvo 29-2072, 62.0 mm SL, Bonito stream, Borrachudo River drainage and (f) LaGEEvo 55, 34.5 mm SL, Usina do Abaeté dam Lagoon, Abaeté River drainage.

Psalidodon terezinhae sp. nov.

Psalidodon velhochico sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet velhochico is used as a noun in apposition and refers to the popular nickname of the São Francisco River in Brazil, affectionately called “Velho Chico” (“Old Chico”) by Brazilians.

Psalidodon paiva sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet is used as a noun in apposition and honors the Paiva family, whose life, portrayed in the Brazilian Oscar-winning film “Ainda Estou Aqui” (2024), was profoundly affected by the imprisonment, disappearance, and execution of the family patriarch, Rubens Paiva, during the Brazilian military dictatorship.

Igor Henrique Rodrigues-Oliveira, Priscila Martins de Assis, Luiz Guilherme Pereira Pimente, Rafael Augusto Silva Soares, Iuri Batista da Silva, Renan Rodrigues Rocha, Fabiano Bezerra Menegidio, Rubens Pasa and Karine Frehner Kavalco. 2025. Unraveling a 150-Year-Old Enigma: Psalidodon rivularis (Acestrorhamphidae: Acestrorhampinae), a Species Complex or a Polymorphic Species. Biology. 14(12), 1793. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/biology14121793 [16 December 2025]

 

Simple Summary: This study investigates a group of closely related fish species from southeastern Brazil known as the Psalidodon rivularis complex. These fishes are very similar in appearance, which has made it difficult to know exactly how many species exist. By combining information from their body shape, body measurements, chromosome counts, and DNA, we found that what was once thought to be a single species includes at least five distinct ones. The true P. rivularis has 46 chromosomes, while the others have 50. One of them corresponds to Psalidodon santae, which was previously classified in another genus, and three are new species described here. Our results also suggest that their diversity arose through processes such as changes in chromosome numbers, hybridization between populations, and morphological divergence, potentially within broader scenarios that may involve vicariant or adaptive processes. These fishes live in small rivers and streams of the Upper São Francisco River basin, environments that are rich in unique species but threatened by human activities. Recognizing and protecting these new species is essential for conserving the biodiversity of Brazilian freshwater ecosystems.

[PaleoIchthyology • 2025] Apolithabatis seioma • Insights into Stem Batomorphii: A New holomorphic Ray (Chondrichthyes: Elasmobranchii) from the upper Jurassic of Germany

 

Apolithabatis seioma   

Türtscher, Jambura, Spindler & Kriwet, 2025 

     

DOI: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0310174 

 facebook.com: Frederik Spindler

Abstract

The Late Jurassic fossil deposits of southern Germany, collectively known as the ’Solnhofen Archipelago’, are one of the world’s most important sources of Mesozoic vertebrates. Complete skeletons of cartilaginous fishes (Chondrichthyes), whose skeletal remains are rare in the fossil record and therefore all the more valuable, are represented, among others, by exceptionally well-preserved rays (superorder Batomorphii). Despite their potential for research in several areas, including taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and phylogeny, the number of studies on these chondrichthyans is still very limited. Here, we identify a previously unknown ray, †Apolithabatis seioma gen. et sp. nov., which represents the first record of a ray species from the upper Kimmeridgian of Painten, Germany, and thus the oldest Late Jurassic ray taxon from Germany based on skeletal remains. This new batomorph is characterised by a unique body shape and a combination of skeletal features that distinguish it readily from all other known Late Jurassic rays. Two different morphometric approaches confirm differences in body shape and proportions to all known Late Jurassic conspecifics. We thus extend the recent taxonomic revision of these rays and include all described holomorphic specimens in a phylogenetic framework using strict cladistic principles. The phylogenetic analysis reveals all Late Jurassic batomorphs to represent a monophyletic group, for which we introduce the new order Apolithabatiformes, which is sister to all other batomorphs representing a stem group. While the phylogenetic relationships within Apolithabatiformes ord. nov. remain largely unresolved, †Apolithabatis gen. nov. is placed as the sister to †Aellopobatis. This highlights that, despite considerable progress in our understanding of the diversity and phylogeny of early rays, difficulties remain in establishing robust relationships within batomorphs. We therefore emphasise the importance of comprehensive studies of completely preserved fossil cartilaginous fishes to obtain a better understanding of chondrichthyan evolution and their systematics in deep time. 

Systematic palaeontology

Class CHONDRICHTHYES Huxley, 1880 

Subclass ELASMOBRANCHII Bonaparte, 1838  

Cohort EUSELACHII Hay, 1902 

Subcohort NEOSELACHII Compagno, 1977 

Superorder BATOMORPHII Cappetta, 1980 

†APOLITHABATIFORMES ord. nov.

We consequently propose a new order, †Apolithabatiformes ord. nov., which includes the single family, †Spathobatidae with the genera †Aellopobatis, †Apolithabatis gen. nov., †Asterodermus, †Belemnobatis, †Kimmerobatis, and †Spathobatis. This order represents the most plesiomorphic clade within Batomorphii being placed on the stem of the total group Batomorphii. It is possible that the hitherto undescribed Late Jurassic batomorph from Argentina, previously considered merely as Batomorphii indet. by Cione (1999) [14], also belongs to this order, which, however, can only be clarified by a detailed examination of the specimen.

Type species. †Apolithabatis seioma gen. et sp. nov.

Included taxa: †Aellopobatis bavarica, †Apolithabatis seioma gen. et sp. nov., †Asterodermus platypterus, †Belemnobatis spp., †Kimmerobatis etchesi, †Spathobatis spp.

Etymology: The name ’Apolithabatiformes’ is composed of two Greek words, i.e., ’aπολίθωμα’ (apolíthoma) meaning ’fossil’ and ’βατίς’ (batís) meaning ’ray’ or ’skate’.

Diagnostic characters. Elongated mesopterygium contiguous with propterygium and similar in shape; lateral articulation of antorbital cartilages (if present) to nasal capsules; two true fin spines anterior to dorsal fins (absent in some taxa);

Family †SPATHOBATIDAE Dames, 1888 

†APOLITHABATIS gen. nov.

Type species. †Apolithabatis seioma gen. et sp. nov.

 Etymology: Identical to that of the order †Apolithabatiformes (see above): the genus name ’Apolithabatis’ is composed of two Greek words, i.e., ’Απολίθωμα’ (apolíthoma) meaning ’fossil’, and ’βατίς’ (batís) meaning ’ray’ or ’skate’.

Stratigraphic and geographic distribution: Only known from the upper Kimmeridgian (Upper Jurassic) of the ’Solnhofen Archipelago’ (Painten), Bavaria, Germany.

Diagnosis: A guitarfish-like batomorph unique in having the following combination of characters: heart-shaped disc that is wider than long; pointed snout; antorbital cartilages present but reaching less than halfway between the nasal capsules and the propterygium; vertebral centra extending less than half of the synarcual length; large mesopterygium tangent to the propterygium; 40 pectoral radials (9 propterygial, 11 mesopterygial, 20 metapterygial); no pectoral radials articulate directly with the scapulocoracoid between the meso- and metapterygium; pectoral radials segmented in up to five segments; at least 16 pairs of ribs; 19 basipterygial radials (including one compound radial); puboischiadic bar curved anteriorly; no postpelvic processes present; broad and triangular lateral prepelvic processes; well-developed and plate-like haemal and supraneural spines; conspicuous bulge-like structure formed by the supraneural spines in front of each dorsal fin; no fin spines present.

†APOLITHABATIS SEIOMA gen. et sp. nov.

Environmental reconstruction showing †Apolithabatis seioma gen. et sp. nov. in association with a juvenile pleurosaurid.

     Julia Türtscher, Patrick L. Jambura, Frederik Spindler and Jürgen Kriwet. 2025. Insights into Stem Batomorphii: A New holomorphic Ray (Chondrichthyes, Elasmobranchii) from the upper Jurassic of Germany. PLoS ONE. 20(1): e0310174. DOI: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0310174

  facebook.com/FrederikSpindler7/posts/9011371638932562

 

[Mammalogy • 2026] Oreoryzomys jumandi, O. balneator, O. hesperus, ... • Mountains of Diversity: A Systematic Revision of the Andean Rodent Genus Oreoryzomys (Rodentia: Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae)

 

(A-E) Oreoryzomys balneator (Thomas, 1900);
(F-J) O. hesperus (Anthony, 1924);
 (K-O) Oreoryzomys jumandi Brito, Vargas, García, Tinoco & Pardiñas, 

in Brito​, Vargas, Tinoco, García, Carrión-Olmedo, Koch, Wistuba, Nivelo-Villavicencio et Pardiñas. 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20515

Abstract

The until recently monotypic cricetid genus Oreoryzomys inhabits piedmont and cloud forests, primarily in eastern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Erected following the taxonomic revision of a polytypic Oryzomys complex two decades ago, Oreoryzomys has remained poorly understood, with most references limited to the original descriptions of its type species (O. balneator) and a subspecies (O. b. hesperus). Here, we present an integrative taxonomic revision of the genus, based on new field collections and comprehensive museum-based analyses. Phylogenetic reconstructions from mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences, combined with morphometric and qualitative morphological data, support the recognition of three species: (1) a redescribed O. balneator from central-eastern Ecuador; (2) O. hesperus, elevated to full species rank based on topotypic material; and (3) a new species from populations of the Quijos River Valley, northeastern Ecuador. This revision triples the known species diversity of Oreoryzomys and highlights the genus as a notable radiation of small-bodied oryzomyines adapted to Andean environments. Our findings emphasize the need for systematic revisions of other poorly known Andean rodents to better reveal the hidden diversity of cricetids and the role of the Andes in shaping Neotropical biodiversity.

Keywords: Andes, Ecuador, New species, Oreoryzomys balneator, Oreoryzomys hesperus, Oryzomyini, Peru

 

External appearance of the three Oreoryzomys species (left panels) and details of their feet and hands (right panels).
Top row: (A) live lateral view (O. balneator, MECN 5815); (B–C) plantar and dorsal views of foot; (D–E) palmar and dorsal views of hand (MECN 6140).
Middle row: (F) live lateral view (O. a. hesperus, MECN 4789); (G–H) plantar and dorsal views of foot; (I–J) palmar and dorsal views of hand.
Bottom row: (K) live lateral view (Oreoryzomys jumandi sp. nov., MECN 8278, holotype); (L–M) plantar and dorsal views of foot; (N–O) palmar and dorsal views of hand.

Scale = 10 mm. Photographs (A–J, L–O) by J Brito; (K) by R Wistuba.

Oreoryzomys jumandi new species. Brito, Vargas, García, Tinoco & Pardiñas

 

Jumandi Mountain Mouse, 

Ratón montano de Jumandi (in Spanish)

 

Diagnosis: A species of Oreoryzomys distinguished by the following combination of characters: incisive foramina short, not reaching the anterior margin of M1 (Fig. 6F); frontoparietal (coronal) suture distinctly V-shaped (Fig. 6E); stapedial process of the auditory bulla elongate and pointed, projecting beyond the posterior margin of the alisphenoid (Fig. 9F); median lacerate foramen broad and positioned at a distance from the bulla; M3 with the hypoflexus shallow, forming a lake-like structure; and m2 with a long mesolophid fused to the mesostyle (Fig. 11C).

 

Etymology: Named in honor of Jumandi, a Quijo warrior who led the first indigenous uprising against Spanish conquistadors in the Americas on 29 November 1578 (Santos-Granero, 1992). In recognition of his historical significance, Jumandi was officially declared a National Hero by the Asamblea Nacional del Ecuador in November 2011.

Jorge Brito​, Rocío Vargas, Nicolás Tinoco, Rubí García, Julio C. Carrión-Olmedo, Claudia Koch, Ricarda Wistuba, Carlos Nivelo-Villavicencio and Ulyses F.J. Pardiñas. 2026. Mountains of Diversity: A Systematic Revision of the Andean Rodent Genus Oreoryzomys (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae). PeerJ. 14:e20515. DOI: doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20515 [January 9, 2026]

 

[Cnidaria • 2025] Pavona giannii • A New Reef-dwelling Coral (Hexacorallia: Scleractinia: Agariciidae), with an overview of the skeletal morphology of the type specimens of the genus Pavona

 

Pavona giannii  

Benzoni, 2025 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1260.167263

Abstract

Hard coral species in the agariciid genus Pavona are common in shallow and mesophotic coral reef communities across the Indo-Pacific, but their taxonomy has long been overlooked. Pavona giannii sp. nov. is here described based on newly collected material across the Indian Ocean, and historical museum specimens. In vivo and skeletal morphological features are described, diagnostic characters measured, and comparison with congeners performed. The new species forms an encrusting corallum devoid of raised ridges on its surface. Its corallites are flush with the surface, not inclined, and less than half a corallite diameter apart. Corallites arrangement is thamnasteroid and series can form locally. Where they occur, the radial elements run over the shared walls to the adjacent series’ corallites creating a ladder-like arrangement similar to that observed over the ridges in congeners like Pavona varians and Pavona chiriquiensis. Despite the lack of ridges, P. giannii sp. nov. has morphological affinities with these two species. However, based on previously published morphometrics and meristics, P. giannii sp. nov. corallites are larger and more crowded, and the primary septa are longer and more numerous. In vivo, the new species is distinguished by fully extended white to beige tentacles during the daytime, giving it a white-bearded appearance. Despite the ecological relevance of Pavona corals, a taxonomic revision of the genus is overdue, and the existing molecular studies indicate that it is polyphyletic. Here, the proposed placement of P. giannii sp. nov. in the genus is based on morphological evidence alone and phylogenomic analyses are currently in progress.

Key words: Morphometrics, museum collections, reef-building coral, skeletal morphology, taxonomy

Holotype of Pavona giannii sp. nov. MNHN-IK-2012-14233
A. the whole colony in situ at Hyllanyia Island, Bir Ali, Yemen, prior to sampling and B. corallum of the sampled fragment. C. Top view of the corallum showing corallite arrangement and the position of some of the corallite series boundaries (dashed pink lines) marked by the presence of parallel radial elements running over and across them, and D. side view showing its even surface given by equally high and flat top margins of S1 and S2 septa, and the deep-seated fossae. Scale bars: 1 cm (B); 5 mm (C, D).

Pavona giannii sp. nov. in situ.
A. Typically white extended tentacles in the colony, from which specimen UNIMIB BAL252 was collected, encrusting a submassive Porites (living portion at the top right-hand side) at Balhaf, Yemen; B. Colony of UF 17957, Mirbat, Oman; C. Fully extended white tentacles covering the whole surface of the colony of UNIMIB SO078 at Socotra Island, Yemen; D. Colony with partially retracted tentacles allowing the polyps’ white oral disks to show, Mahé Island, Seychelles; E. Colony of UNIMIB MY069 at Mayotte Island; F. Colony with white tentacles and grey oral disks Balhaf, Yemen; G. Close-up of the polyps of colony UNIMIB BU049 with beige tentacles and white oral disks at Burum, Yemen.

 Francesca Benzoni. 2025. A New Reef-dwelling Coral, Pavona giannii sp. nov. (Scleractinia, Agariciidae), with an overview of the skeletal morphology of the type specimens of the genus Pavona. ZooKeys. 1260: 123-147. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1260.167263