[Entomology • 2026] Attenboroughnculus tau • A New Genus of Pedunculinae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from Chile and A Key to the World Genera

Attenboroughnculus tau De Ketelaere and Broad,

in De Ketelaere, Pullar et Broad, 2026.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2026.2663058 

ABSTRACT

A new genus of Pedunculinae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) is described: Attenboroughnculus De Ketelaere and Broad, gen. n. a monotypic genus for Attenboroughnculus tau De Ketelaere and Broad, sp. n. collected in central Chile. This is the fourth genus and fourth described species of Pedunculinae and the second from the Neotropics. Each of the four known genera is defined by putative apomorphies, included in an identification key, and photos of each are provided.

KEYWORDS: Austral, Darwin wasps, Gondwanan, new species, South America, taxonomy, Sir David Attenborough

Attenboroughnculus De Ketelaere and Broad, gen. n.

  

Etymology: 

This unique genus from Chile has been named after Sir David Attenborough ahead of his 100th birthday, celebrating the broadcaster and biologist’s highly distinctive contribution to our understanding of the natural world. David Attenborough has featured Chile’s diverse, extreme landscapes in several documentaries, emphasising the unique environmental challenges and ecological resilience of species within the country.

Sir David has also filmed several scenes with parasitoid wasps, famously termed the ‘bodysnatcher wasp’ by the broadcaster in the Trials of Life, first broadcast in 1990. He has used his work to reveal the intimate, unseen or overlooked within nature. This resonates in the discovery of this species in an unsorted drawer within the collections of the Natural History Museum, London.

In 2023 Sir David revealed a new bronze quote outside the Natural History Museum, London, reading: The future of the natural world, on which we all depend, is in our hands. We are using this opportunity to echo this message through the naming of this new genus of tiny wasp.

We hope to inspire global scientists to take another look in their collections to see if there is something small that could contribute to our collective understanding and therefore the future of our natural world. The name is a concatenation of ‘Attenborough’ and ‘Pedunculus’.

Attenboroughnculus tau De Ketelaere and Broad, sp. n.

Etymology: Named after the large, capital ‘T’ marking on the second metasomal tergite, with ‘tau’ being the Greek for ‘T’. A noun in apposition.

Augustijn De Ketelaere, Jennifer Pullar and Gavin R. Broad. 2026. The Description of A New Genus of Pedunculinae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from Chile and A Key to the World Genera. Journal of Natural History. 60(21-24); 1167-1180. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2026.2663058 [07 May 2026]

[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  

 x.com/santiak

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] 

 x.com/santiak/status/2081416238371135900

[Botany • 2026] Cryptanthus pataxoanus & C. beuckeri • Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century

 

Cryptanthus pataxoanus  Forzza & Leme,

in Leme, Fernandez, Fontana, Almeida et Forzza, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1 

Abstract

The authors describe and illustrate a new species of Cryptanthus, C. pataxoanus, found within the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, and present new data on its closest morphological relative, C. beuckeri, both endemic to the Atlantic Forest of the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). The new taxon represents one of the most ornamental discoveries in recent years due to its marbled foliage, with contrasting greenish-yellow and dark green colors, which is similar to C. beuckeri. The main differences between C. pataxoanus and its closest relative include leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, the much broader portion of the blades distinctly longer, the narrower sepals covered by brown-centered trichomes, and petals without glandulose trichomes. The discovery of the new species results from cooperative work with the Pataxó indigenous community living in Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands, located within the boundaries of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park. It symbolizes the inexhaustible richness of the Brazilian biodiversity in general and the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia in particular, despite its current coexistence with high levels of threat.

Monocots, Atlantic Forest, Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, morphology, taxonomy

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A, B. Details of the population at the type locality. C. Habit. Photos: S. Caram (A, B); E. Leme (C).

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A. Elongate stem. B. Details of the marginal spines. C. Inflorescence. D. Details of the inflorescence. E–O. Perfect flower. E. Floral bracts of the basal fascicles. F. Sepals. G. Petal and stamens. H. Stigma. I. Frontal view of the anther just before anthesis. J. Abaxial view of the anther just before the anthesis. K. Basal fascicle. L. Flower. M. Basal portion of the petal and stamens. N. Details of the apex of the sepals. O. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary. P–T. Staminate flower: P. Flower of the inner portion of the inflorescence. Q. Floral bract. R. Details of the apex of the sepal. S. Sepals. T. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary.

 Photos: E. Leme. Bars: A = 2 cm; B, C, K, L, P = 1 cm; D–G, M–O, Q–T = 5 mm; H–J = 1 mm.

 Cryptanthus pataxoanus Forzza & Leme, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—This new species can be distinguished from its morphologically closest relative, Cryptanthus beuckeri, by the leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, with subpetioles gradually merging into the much broader distal portion (vs. always distinctly petiolate, with petioles strongly contrasting with the much broader distal portion); the much broader portion of the blades longer (20–30 cm vs. 10–20 cm long); sepals with narrower lobes (vs. 2–2.5 mm vs. 3.5–4 mm wide) covered by distinctly brown-centered trichomes (vs. trichomes white); and petals without glandulose trichomes (vs. adaxially bearing glandulose trichomes).

Etymology:—The name of this new species honors the Pataxó indigenous people. They belong to the Macro-Jê linguistic family and have a long history of resistance, facing challenges such as reclaiming their traditional lands and promoting the value of their culture since the 16th century. The Pataxó predominantly inhabit the extreme south of Bahia, which includes the area of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park where the Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands are located. They maintain strong traditions, such as the Patxohã language, rituals (like the Awê), and the use of body paintings that serve as cultural identifiers, in addition to promoting the conservation of the environment within their traditional natural territory.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus.
B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus. B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.
C–F. Illegal selective logging and habitat degradation associated with mule trampling used for clandestine timber extraction inside the park. Photos: R.C. Forzza (B); C. Rodrigues (C, D, E, F).

ELTON M. C. LEME, EDUARDO P. FERNANDEZ, ANDRÉ P. FONTANA, PEDRO S. DE ALMEIDA and RAFAELA C. FORZZA. 2026. Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae, Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century.  Phytotaxa. 763(3); 201-218. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1  [2026-06-24]

[Ichthyology • 2026] Molecular Phylogenetics and A New Taxonomy of the Neotropical Electric Fishes (Actinopterygii: Otophysi: Gymnotiformes)

 

Representatives of the six gymnotiform families Apteronotidae (A), Sternopygidae (S), Gymnotidae (G), Electrophoridae (E), Hypopomidae (H), and Rhamphichthyidae (R). 

Top to bottom, and left to right, are: Rhamphichthys rostratus (R), Archolaemus janeae (S), Sternarchorhamphus muelleri (A), Eigenmannia magoi (S), Gymnotus carapo (G), Sternarchorhynchus sp. (A), Apteronotus galvisi (A), Orthosternarchus tamandua (A), “Apteronotus” (Genus B) cuchillejo (A), Apteronotus eschmeyeri (A), Apteronotus cf. albifrons (A), Gymnorhamphichthys sp. (R), Sternarchorhynchus marreroi (A), Sternopygus aequilabiatus (S), Adontosternarchus devenanzii (A), Steatogenys duidae (R), Brachyhypopomus occidentalis (H), Hypopomus artedi (H), and Electrophorus multivalvulus (E). 

in Janzen, Sabaj, Crampton et Lovejoy, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.ympev.2026.108678 

Photos by M. Sabaj.

  

Highlights: 

• New 9 gene molecular tree for 202 species of Neotropical electric knifefishes (order Gymnotiformes)

• A new taxonomy is proposed, based on the most extensive phylogenetic analysis to date.

• Strong phylogenetic support for 6 families, including the Electrophoridae (electric eels)

• Two main groups of species defined by either pulse or wave-type electric signals.

• Two new suborders: Pulseoidei for pulse-type species and Sinusoidei for wave-type species.

Abstract

The order Gymnotiformes—Neotropical electric eels and knifefishes—comprise a distinctive lineage of freshwater fishes characterized by electrogenesis and electroreception. Despite their ecological, evolutionary, and neurobiological significance, phylogenetic relationships within the order remain incompletely resolved. We present the most taxonomically inclusive molecular phylogeny of Gymnotiformes to date, based on two mitochondrial and seven nuclear genes from 202 species representing 31 of 36 extant genera. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses provide strong support for a concordant species-level phylogenetic arrangement that we use to propose a revised classification of Gymnotiformes, including new suprageneric names and reassignments of some taxa and species. We found support for six monophyletic families, including Electrophoridae (electric eels). We propose two new suborders corresponding to electric signal type: Pulseoidei (pulse-type) and Sinusoidei (wave-type), an arrangement that does not allow determination of whether a pulse or wave-type signal was ancestral. In Apteronotidae, the subfamilies Sternarchorhamphinae and Apteronotinae are supported; within Apteronotinae, we establish the tribe Steatogenini to include Porotergus, Sternarchella, and close relatives. We resolve the non-monophyly of Apteronotus with generic reassignments. For Sternopygidae, we support the monophyletic subfamilies Sternopyginae and Eigenmanniinae and resolve polyphyly in Rhabdolichops and Eigenmannia via generic reassignments. Within Gymnotus, we support six species groups. We confirm the sister-group relationship between Hypopomidae and Rhamphichthyidae and clarify their internal structure, including support for six species groups within the diverse genus Brachyhypopomus. Our study provides a robust phylogenetic framework for Gymnotiformes and establishes a foundation for future work on systematics, biogeography, trait evolution, and comparative neurobiology.

 

Keywords: Neotropical, Systematics, Electric eel, Knifefish, Electric organ discharges

Sinusoidei subord. nov. changed from “Sinusoidea” of Albert 2001

Pulseoidei subord. nov. changed from “Pulseoidea” of Alda et al. 2018

Representatives of the six gymnotiform families Apteronotidae (A), Sternopygidae (S), Gymnotidae (G), Electrophoridae (E), Hypopomidae (H), and Rhamphichthyidae (R). 

Top to bottom, and left to right, are: Rhamphichthys rostratus (R), Archolaemus janeae (S), Sternarchorhamphus muelleri (A), Eigenmannia magoi (S), Gymnotus carapo (G), Sternarchorhynchus sp. (A), Apteronotus galvisi (A), Orthosternarchus tamandua (A), “Apteronotus” (Genus B) cuchillejo (A), Apteronotus eschmeyeri (A), Apteronotus cf. albifrons (A), Gymnorhamphichthys sp. (R), Sternarchorhynchus marreroi (A), Sternopygus aequilabiatus (S), Adontosternarchus devenanzii (A), Steatogenys duidae (R), Brachyhypopomus occidentalis (H), Hypopomus artedi (H), and Electrophorus multivalvulus (E). 

Photos by M. Sabaj.

  

 

 Francesco H. Janzen, Mark H. Sabaj, William G.R. Crampton, Nathan R. Lovejoy, 2026. Molecular Phylogenetics and A New Taxonomy of the Neotropical Electric Fishes (Actinopterygii: Otophysi: Gymnotiformes). Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. In Press, 108678. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.ympev.2026.108678 [10 July 2026]

[Herpetology • 2026] Isthmohyla nacientes • A New Species of Stream-Breeding Isthmohyla (Anura: Hylidae) from Costa Rica

 

Isthmohyla nacientes  

Chaves-Acuña, Abarca, Navarro-Picado, Hidalgo-Mora, Ureña-Chaves, Valverde-Castillo, Chaves, Bolaños & Faivovich, 2026

   

DOI: doi.org/10.1643/h2024066 

 x.com/IchsAndHerps

Abstract

We describe a new species of the Isthmohyla tica group that occurs along the montane regions of the central Pacific of Costa Rica, between 1,400 and 2,000 masl. Although the new species is the sister taxon of a clade including an unde-scribed species and I. rivularis, it is more similar to I. tica. However, the new species can be distinguished because the flanks have scattered, distinct, round and irregular dark blotches or spots and because the advertisement call is comprised by a single, tonal note, typically emitted singly or in series, at dominant frequencies of 4,048–4,909 Hz, with a duration of 10–50 ms. The new species exhibits a broad acoustic repertoire composed of advertisement, release, and courtship calls, with the latter being emitted underwater. We discuss our findings with respect to adult and larval morphology, reproductive biology, and bioacoustics of the I. tica group.

Isthmohyla nacientes in life.
 (A) Holotype (UCR 24345), dorsal coloration at night. (B) Lateral view of male paratype (UCR 24367). (C) Ventral view of male paratype (UCR 24367), showing orange coloration on the hidden and ventral surfaces of the thighs and shank. (D) Male paratype (UCR 23770) showing bilobate, translucent vocal sac. (E) Lateral view of female paratype (UCR 24368).

Photos: B, C, and E by Gabriel Ureña

Isthmohyla nacientes, new species  

 

Etymology.—The specific epithet “nacientes” refers to the crucial role of headwaters and springs (nacientes in Spanish) in the habitat and life cycle of the new species and its stream-breeding congeners. This name highlights the species’ association with aquatic environments, particularly the springs found in its range, acknowledging the ecological significance of these water sources.

Wagner Chaves-Acuña, Juan Abarca, Jonathan Navarro-Picado, Esteban Hidalgo-Mora, Marilyn Ureña-Chaves, Alejandro Valverde-Castillo, Gerardo Chaves, Federico Bolaños and Julián Faivovich. 2026. A New Species of Stream-Breeding Isthmohyla (Anura: Hylidae) from Costa Rica. Ichthyology & Herpetology. 114(2); 337-356. DOI: doi.org/10.1643/h2024066 (3 July 2026) x.com/IchsAndHerps/status/2076689784525717838

  

We describe a new species of the Isthmohyla tica group that occurs along the montane regions of the central Pacific of Costa Rica, between 1,400 and 2,000 masl. Although the new species is the sister taxon of a clade including an undescribed species and I. rivularis, it is more similar to I. tica. However, the new species can be distinguished because the flanks have scattered, distinct, round and irregular dark blotches or spots and because the advertisement call is comprised by a single, tonal note, typically emitted singly or in series, at dominant frequencies of 4,048–4,909 Hz, with a duration of 10–50 ms. The new species exhibits a broad acoustic repertoire composed of advertisement, release, and courtship calls, with the latter being emitted underwater. We discuss our findings with respect to adult and larval morphology, reproductive biology, and bioacoustics of the I. tica group.

[Arachnida • 2026] Latrodectus lucacha • A New Andean Species of Widow Spider (Araneae: Theridiidae: Latrodectus)

Latrodectus lucacha  

 Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, 2026

DOI:  doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1281.185973 

 

Abstract

We describe a new species of widow spider (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus) from the Andean region. DNA barcode sequences are provided. The species is documented from museum specimens across Peru and identified from photographs on iNaturalist, extending its inferred distribution into Ecuador, Bolivia, and Chile. We integrate specimen and citizen-science occurrences to generate a species distribution model using WorldClim bioclimatic variables, predicting highest suitability along temperate to high-elevation Andean regions. We discuss the utility and limitations of citizen-science imagery for delimiting and mapping species and summarize available information on clinical aspects of envenomation in Peru associated with the local “lucacha” widow spider.

Key words: Andes, citizen-science, DNA barcode, iNaturalist, Latrodectus lucacha, new species, Peru, species distribution model, taxonomy

Observations of Latrodectus lucacha Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, sp. nov., from iNaturalist.
A. Female, male and egg case, from Arica, Arica y Parinacota, Chile; iNaturalist.org (by ferru, CC-BY-NC); B. Female with two egg cases, note parasitoid wasps on egg case, from Nabón, Azuay, Ecuador; iNaturalist.org (by kabirbosques, CC-BY);
C. Female feeding on a beetle, from Lima, Peru; iNaturalist.org (by ruthgo, CC0); D. Female feeding on a damselfly, from Lima, Peru; iNaturalist.org (by Mathieu_fr, CC-BY-NC).

Latrodectus lucacha Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, sp. nov.
A–C. From Pantanos de Villa Om, Lima, Peru (MUSM-ENT 051958), microphotographs of adult male; D. From Pachacayo, Junin, Peru (MUSM-ENT 0519569), schematic illustration of female reproductive structures; A, D. Dorsal; B. Lateral; C. Ventral.

Abbreviations: CD copulatory duct, FD Fertilization duct, SP Spermathecae. 

Scale bars: 1.0 mm (A–C), 0.5 mm (D).

Latrodectus lucacha Miller, Kratzer & Griswold, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Female with three loop copulatory ducts (Figs 2D, 3D–F), distinguishing it from L. geometricus C. L. Koch, 1841 and L. quartus Abalos, 1980 (Abalos 1980: figs 39, 66), which have more loops (ca 4), and from L. antheratus (Badcock, 1932) and L. variegatus Nicolet, 1849 (Abalos 1980: figs 49, 58), which have fewer (2). With dorsal longitudinal opisthosomal stripe variable in both width and length (Figs 4, 5), resembling several South American species, but not exhibiting oblique vertical stripes on the posterior quarter ...

Etymology. Lucacha is a common name for widow spiders in Peru (Pickard-Cambridge 1902; Maguiña Vargas et al. 2017).

Jeremy Miller, Chris Alice Kratzer and Charles Griswold. 2026. Description of A New Andean Species of Widow Spider (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus). ZooKeys. 1281: 49-67. DOI:  doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1281.185973 

[Herpetology • 2026] Allobates tanaru • The First Chlorotic Species of the Superfamily Dendrobatoidea: A New Nurse Frog of the Allobates albiventris Complex (Anura: Aromobatidae) with remarkably greenish hatchlings from Brazilian Amazonia

 Allobates tanaru 

Dantas, Ferrão, Cunha-Machado & Lima, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.3099/0006-9698-579.1.1

 Abstract -

While many frogs around the world have blue-green tissues because of the accumulation of a pigment called biliverdin, this had never been observed in nurse or poison frogs until now. In this study, we describe a new species of nurse frog from southwestern Amazonia that breaks new ground in Neotropical amphibian taxonomy: It is the first chlorotic species—with greenish hatchlings—ever recorded in the large superfamily Dendrobatoidea. Previously lumped within Allobates albiventris, integrative taxonomy reveals it as a distinct species, supported by a set of morphological and bioacoustic traits. It differs from most of its congeners by a call consisting of a pair of notes emitted in a single exhalation; males with lateral expansions on fingers II and III, and a white vocal sac covered with melanophores; dark brown oocytes, hatchlings with greenish yolk, and tadpoles with two or three short, pyramidal papillae distributed in a single row on each lateral margin of the anterior lip. Beyond its diagnostic features, this discovery is notable because chlorotic tissues were previously unknown in Dendrobatoidea, a superfamily with more than 350 species known for its terrestrial habitat, territoriality, carrying behavior, and nonchlorotic adults. The distinctive greenish hue seen in embryos of certain species, particularly in the new Allobates, may serve as an adaptation for predator avoidance, and it also highlights the ecological plasticity and morphological diversity within the genus. This opens fresh avenues to study the ecological, evolutionary, and developmental significance of biliverdin in frogs using a lineage wherein the biology contrasts with classic model species.

KEYWORDS: biodiversity, chlorosis, Integrative taxonomy, Madeira River, new species, species delimitation

Color in life of adults of Allobates tanaru sp. nov.
(A–C) Female, INPA-H 45548, SVL 17.4 mm. (D–F) Female, MPEG 45484, SVL 17.5 mm.
(G, I) Male, INPA-H 45552, SVL 17.0 mm. (H) Female, INPA-H 45549, SVL 16.9 mm.
(J–L) Male, INPA-H 45554, SVL 15.8 mm.

Allobates tanaru sp. nov. Dantas, Ferrão & Lima

  

Etymology: The specific epithet tanaru is a noun in apposition and honors the indigenous Tanaru, known in Portuguese as Índio Tanaru and Índio do Buraco (Indigenous Tanaru and Indigenous of the Hole, respectively). Tanaru died on 23 August 2022; he was the last representative individual of a poorly known ethnic group that lived in Rondônia, Brazil. His people were exterminated by gunmen at the behest of illegal loggers in 1995. After that, Tanaru lived isolated for almost 30 years in the Tanaru Indigenous Land, located in the southeast Rondônia, approximately 700 km from Rondônia's capital. Because the Tanaru Indigenous Land does not have a consolidated land demarcation and is surrounded by agricultural farms, the land suffers continuous threats and attacks, some of which started just some days after Tanaru's death. The indigenous Txai Suruí, from the Suruí ethnic group, said: “Known for his solitude, Tanaru resisted the contact with non-indigenous people until his last days after so much trauma and violence. His territory must continue to represent resistance and must be preserved and cared for, becoming a permanent conservation area.”

Vernacular names: Tanaru's nurse frog (English),
Rana Cuidadora de Tanaru (Spanish),
Rãzinha Cuidadora do Tanaru (Portuguese).

Diagnosis: A nurse frog Allobates characterized by the following combination of characters. Small-bodied species, SVL 14.1–17.0 mm (n = 18) in males and 16.9–18.2 mm (n = 9) in females; granular dorsal skin; one subarticular tubercle on finger IV; tip of finger IV reaches the distal phalanx of finger III; cream dorsum with contrasting brown marks; dorsolateral stripe present; conspicuous ventrolateral line absent; translucent-white vocal sac; white ventral surface in males; white chest and belly in females; and dorsal surface of fingers brown. Advertisement calls characterized by the emission of two notes in a single exhalation; with a call duration of 64 ± 4 ms (57–69 ms); first note (18 ± 2 ms; 16–22 ms) shorter than the second (27 ± 2 ms; 24–32 ms); an intercall interval of 275 ± 24 ms (220–309 ms); an intercall-series interval 854 ± 123 ms (645–1,118 ms); and a dominant frequency of 5,518 ± 200 Hz (5,168–5,879 Hz). Hatchlings with greenish yolk. Exotrophic tadpoles with an oral disc; labial keratodont row formula 2(2)/3(1); 13–15 pyramidal and cylindrical papillae on posterior labium; three pyramidal papillae at each end of the posterior labium; cylindrical papillae on the central portion of posterior labium; posterior labium length formulae P-I = P-II > P-III; and light-brown melanophores on tail and fins not forming blotches or spots.

Coloration of freshly laid eggs (A), embryos (B), and hatchlings (C) of  Allobates tanaru sp. nov.

 

 

Silionamã Pereira Dantas, Miquéias Ferrão, Antônio Saulo Cunha-Machado and Albertina Pimentel Lima. 2026. The First Chlorotic Species of the Superfamily Dendrobatoidea: A New Nurse Frog of the Allobates albiventris Complex (Anura, Aromobatidae) with remarkably greenish hatchlings from Brazilian Amazonia. Breviora. 579 (1), 1-35. DOI: doi.org/10.3099/0006-9698-579.1.1 (8 July 2026) 

[Botany • 2026] Passiflora albopurpurea (Passifloraceae) • A New Species of Passiflora Subg. Passiflora discovered in the central montane forest of Peru

 

 Passiflora albopurpurea Chávez-Corcuera,  
 

in Chávez-Corcuera, Castañeda, Gutierrez et Ocampo, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.741.1.10  

  Researchgate.net/publication/400720451 

 Abstract

A new species of Passiflora sect. Granadillastrum belonging to P. subg. Passiflora discovered in the montane forests of Peru is described and illustrated. This new taxon, Passiflora albopurpurea, differs from P. crassifolia by having entire 3–5-nerved leaves, corona in 6 or 7 series, sepals, petals and inner row of corona white and a glabrous ovary. A taxonomic discussion and a distribution map are provided, along with keys for the identification of morphologically related species occurring in Peru. This new species is rare, due to its restricted occurrence with a small population size and should be considered under category Endangered (EN). 

Chanchamayo, Endemism, Passifonflower, Oxapampa, Stipulata, series Menispermifoliae, supersection Stipulata, Eudicots

 

 Passiflora albopurpurea Chávez-Corcuera. A) Fertile branch; B) Senescent flower; C) Stipules; D) Petiole glands; E) Flower; F) Inner view of the flower.

Photographs A-B R. Vásquez; C-F G. Chávez-Corcuera.

Passiflora albopurpurea Chávez-Corcuera sp. nov.

GONZALO CHÁVEZ-CORCUERA, ROXANA CASTAÑEDA, HAROL GUTIERREZ and JOHN OCAMPO. 2026. Passiflora albopurpurea, A New Species of sect. Granadillastrum (Passifloraceae, subg. Passiflora) discovered in the central montane forest of Peru.  Phytotaxa. 741(1); 107-114. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.741.1.10 [2026-02-12] 

  Researchgate.net/publication/400720451_Passiflora_albopurpurea_a_new_species_discovered_in_the_central_montane_forest_of_Peru

[Herpetology • 2026] Dendropsophus liliae • A New Species of Dendropsophus (Anura: Hylidae) of the D. ruschii group from the Atlantic Forest in Serra da Mantiqueira, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Dendropsophus liliae

Santana, Shepard, Carvalho, Müller, Assis & Feio, 2026 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0351087 

 

Abstract

The Dendropsophus ruschii species group currently comprises two species with disjunct distributions between the Atlantic Forest and the Amazon. Based on an integrative approach combining morphological, acoustic, and molecular data (mtDNA barcoding), we describe a new species from the Serra da Mantiqueira, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Dendropsophus liliae sp. nov. is diagnosed by its small size, rounded digital discs, presence of a calcar appendage, dark red iris, and a distinct white stripe from the snout to the upper eyelid. This discovery expands the known diversity of the group and represents its most inland record within the Atlantic Forest.

Live specimens of Dendropsophus liliae sp. nov. from Serra do Brigadeiro (type locality).
 (A) Holotype adult male (MZUFV20707), (B) paratype adult male (ZUFMS-AMP7816), (C–F) unvouchered adult males.

Photographs by D.J. Santana (A–B) and C.L. Assis (C–F).

Published under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dendropsophus liliae sp. nov.  

   

Diagnosis.—We assigned the new species to the genus Dendropsophus and to the D. ruschii species group based on phylogenetic results (see Results below). In addition, the new species morphologically resembles other species of the D. ruschii group, especially D. ruschii, which exhibit white marks on the head and flanks. Dendropsophus liliae sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners within the D. ruschii group by the combination of the following features: (1) small size, adult males 16.0–19.5 mm SVL; (2) dominant frequency of the advertisement call from 6030 to 6630 Hz; (3) rounded discs on fingers and toes; (4) presence of sparse small granules on the dorsum; (5) presence of a calcar appendage; (6) eyes dark red; (7) overall dorsal coloration brown; (8) nuptial pad poorly developed; (9) wide head HW/SVL = 0.30–0.34; (10) a well-marked white line running from the posterior edge of the upper eyelid to the tip of the snout.

Etymology.— The specific epithet liliae is a patronym honoring Prof. Lília Maria Fraga Tostes (in memoriam) for her extensive contributions to biology education, her friendship, and her mentorship of DJS during his undergraduate studies. Prof. Lília, affectionately known as “Lilinha,” was a dear friend and a charismatic teacher widely known by the citizens of Muriaé, Minas Gerais (the hometown of DJS). Her kindness and charisma inspired many students to pursue careers in the biological sciences, and several of her former students are now professors who continue to carry her lessons forward.

 

Diego J. Santana, Donald B. Shepard, Priscila S. Carvalho, Márcia M. P. Müller, Clodoaldo L. Assis and Renato N. Feio. 2026. A New Species of Dendropsophus (Anura, Hylidae) of the D. ruschii group from the Atlantic Forest in Serra da Mantiqueira, Minas Gerais, Brazil. PLoS One. 21(6): e0351087. DOI: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0351087 [June 23, 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Valeriana umbellifera (Caprifoliaceae) • A New saxicolous endemic Taxon from Central Chile Mountains

 

Valeriana umbellifera A. Cádiz-Véliz, A.E. Villarroel & Nic. García, 

Cádiz-Véliz, García, Villarroel et Zúñiga-Acevedo, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.741.1.6  

 Researchgate.net/publication/400718107

Abstract

Valeriana, comprissing approximately 436 species, represents a successful evolutionary radiation within Dipsacales, with an important center of diversification in South America. In Chile, 46 species are currently recognized, 41.3% of which are endemic; two are reported as Endangered and one is probably extinct. The genus is mainly represented by herbaceous species, a calyx that is entire or modified into a pappus, a gamopetalous and pentamerous corolla, an inferior ovary, and an achene as indehiscent dry fruit. During botanical surveys in mountainous areas of Central Chile, specimens of a Valeriana restricted to crevices of steep rocky walls were found. Examination of herbarium material and relevant literature confirmed that it corresponds to a previously undescribed species, here named Valeriana umbellifera. This taxon is characterized by its perennial herbaceous habit, strictly saxicolous ecology, fleshy and glossy leaves arranged in a rosette, and a capituliform inflorescence with an umbel-like appearance. Its phylogenetic position was evaluated using molecular markers within the framework of previous analyses of Valeriana species from the southern Andes. According to IUCN criteria, we propose that the species be categorized as Endangered (EN) due to its restricted distribution, fragmented populations, and threats. The restricted distribution and ecological specialization of this new species underscore the conservation importance of rocky microhabitats in Central Chile, which are increasingly threatened by human activities. 

Taxonomy, Andean flora, IUCN Red List, Mediterranean hotspot, Plant conservation, Phylogenetics, rock outcrops, Eudicots

Valeriana umbellifera.
(A) Habitat; (B) Rhizome; (C) Habit -Cerro Poqui-; (D) Stem; (E) Basal leaves; (F) Detail of basal leave; (G) Petiole; (H) Upper leaves; (I) Bracteoles; (J) Capituliform inflorescence; (K, L) Detail of flowers (female); (M) Dry inflorescence; (N) Achene.

Photographs by A.E. Villarroel, N. García and A. Cádiz-Véliz.

Valeriana umbellifera A. Cádiz-Véliz, A.E. Villarroel & Nic. García, sp. nov.

ARÓN CÁDIZ-VÉLIZ, NICOLÁS GARCÍA, ALEJANDRO E. VILLARROEL, PAULA ZÚÑIGA-ACEVEDO. 2026. Valeriana umbellifera (Caprifoliaceae): A New saxicolous endemic Taxon from Central Chile mountains.  Phytotaxa. 741(1); 57-70. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.741.1.6 [2026-02-12]

 Researchgate.net/publication/400718107_Valeriana_umbellifera_a_new_saxicolous_endemic_taxon_from_Central_Chile_mountains

[Botany • 2026] Sinningia pampeana (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the Pampa's rocky outcrops in southern Brazil and Uruguay

 

Sinningia pampeana G.E.Ferreira and Chautems, 
  

in Ferreira, Spiazzi, Barbieri, Chautems et Araújo, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05231 

Abstract

Sinningia pampeana is a new rupicolous species from the rocky outcrops of the Pampa biome in southern Brazil and Uruguay. Morphological analyses based on herbarium material, field observations, and detailed illustrations support its recognition as a distinct species from Sinningia sellovii. Sinningia pampeana is restricted to rock outcrops within the Pampa grasslands, where populations are threatened by grazing, habitat degradation, and potential mining activities. Given the current uncertainty regarding its distribution and sampling completeness, a preliminary conservation assessment of ‘Data Deficient' (DD) is proposed under IUCN criteria.

Keywords: Gesneriaceae, new species, Pampa biome, rocky outcrops, Sinningia

Sinningia pampeana sp. nov. (A) Corolla, frontal view, (B) inflorescence, detail, (C) trichome structure, (D) ovary, transverse section showing the nectary consisting of two separate dorsal glands, (E) ovary, style, and nectary, (F) calyx and corolla showing stamens, (G) coherent anthers, detail, (H) corolla throat, detail showing stamens and anthers, (I) immature capsule, (J) habit.

Drawn from Jarenkow and Garcia 3607.

Morphology of Sinningia pampeana sp. nov.
 (A) Habitat on rocky outcrop, (B) inflorescence in the shrub vegetation, (C) inflorescence, (D) habit, (E) axillary flowers, (F) close-up of the calyx and corolla.

Photo by A. Chautems.

Sinningia pampeana G.E.Ferreira and Chautems sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Sinningia pampeana differs from S. sellovii by its consistently red, horizontally oriented corollas (versus whitish pink to lilac or yellowish and pendent corollas), included anthers (versus exserted), a slightly bilabiate limb with enlarged dorsal lobes (versus a corolla tubular with subequal lobes), and the presence of only one to ca four flowers per bract axil (versus 3–9 flowers).

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘pampeana' refers to the Pampa biome, characterized by grasslands and rocky outcrops across southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. The name derives from the Quechua word ‘pampa', meaning ‘plain' or ‘open field'.

Gabriel Emiliano Ferreira, Daniel Alves Spiazzi, Pedro Henrique Sonsim Barbieri, Alain Chautems and Andréa Onofre Araújo. 2026. Sinningia pampeana sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from the Pampa's rocky outcrops in southern Brazil and Uruguay. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05231 [24 June 2026]