[Mollusca • 2025] Pagodapalaina gen. nov. & Pagodapalaina hortulanica • A New sinistral Genus of Diplommatinidae (Gastropoda: Cyclophoroidea) from the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, with Description of A New Species from Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

Pagodapalaina Z.-Y. Chen gen. nov.
Pagodapalaina hortulanica gen. & sp. nov.
 Pagodapalaina spp. 

in Chen, Sutcharit et Ablett, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5737.3.5  

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Abstract

A new diplommatinid genus, Pagodapalaina Z.-Y. Chen gen. nov., is erected for several sinistral species from the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra originally assigned to Diplommatina Benson, 1849. In addition, a new species of this new genus, Pagodapalaina hortulanica sp. nov., is described from Perak, Peninsular Malaysia. The genus Pagodapalaina gen. nov., is characterised by a sinistral and conical shell with a mostly keeled periphery; the radula consists of a strong central tooth with a large central cusp and smaller lateral cusps; the basal plate of the central tooth bears two small cusps; the lateral and marginal teeth have very short basal parts. An annotated type catalogue of all known species is presented, with illustrations provided for most taxa. Additionally, Diplommatina laemsonensis Boonmachai, Bergey & Nantarat, 2023 and Diplommatina prakaiphetensis Boonmachai, Bergey & Nantarat, 2023 are recognised as synonyms of Pagodapalaina acme (Laidlaw, 1949) comb. nov., and Pagodapalaina sinistra (Tomlin, 1938) comb. nov., respectively.

Mollusca, Micro snails, new genus, new species, Southeast Asia, systematics, taxonomy

Pagodapalaina hortulanica gen. & sp. nov., holotype, NHMUK 19930124.

Pagodapalaina Z.-Y. Chen gen. nov.

Etymology. The name of the new genus is derived from “Pagoda”, referring to the tiered, keeled and tower-like shape of the shell, reminiscent of East Asian pagodas, and diplommatinid genus name Palaina . This genus name is feminine.

Distribution. Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia. The known species of the new genus are distributed on the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra.

Pagodapalaina hortulanica sp. nov.

Etymology. We adopted Davison’s manuscript name with minor modification. The name hortulanica, meaning “garden-dwelling” in Latin, may refer to the flourishing vegetation of the type locality.

 Pagodapalaina spp. 

FIG. 3. A. Pagodapalaina lenggongensis, syntype, NHMUK 1943.6.28.1. B. Pagodapalaina hidagai, paratype, CUMZ Di 005. C. Pagodapalaina parabates, holotype, NHMUK 1948.11.12.6. D. Pagodapalaina pongrati, paratype, CUMZ Di 044. E. Pagodapalaina prakayangensis, paratype, CUMZ Di 007. F. Pagodapalaina sinistra, syntype, NHMUK 1938.10.25.4. G. Pagodapalaina superba brevior, holotype, NHMUK 1948.11.12.7, the outline of shell follows Laidlaw (1949). H. Pagodapalaina suratensis, paratype CUMZ Di 029. Scale bars = 1 mm.

FIG. 2. A. Pagodapalaina acme, holotype, NHMUK 1948.11.12.5. B. Pagodapalaina attenuate, holotype, NHMUK 1948.11.12.8. C. Pagodapalaina carinaspinosa, paratype, NHMUK 20030224/1. D. Pagodapalaina diminuta, holotype, SMF 105374/1. E. Pagodapalaina gadutensis, paratype, NHMUK 20030225/1. F. Pagodapalaina jirasaki, paratype, CUMZ Di 041. G. Pagodapalaina karoensis, paratype, NHMUK 20030226/1. H. Pagodapalaina krabiensis, paratype CUMZ Di 032. Scale bars = 1 mm.

ZHE-YU CHEN, CHIRASAK SUTCHARIT, JONATHAN D. ABLETT. 2025. Pagodapalaina, A New sinistral Genus of Diplommatinidae from the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, with Description of A New Species from Perak, Peninsular Malaysia (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoroidea). Zootaxa. 5737(3); 389-400. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5737.3.5 [2025-12-24]

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[Herpetology • 2026] Cyrtodactylus mursalensis • A New Species of Bent-toed Gecko Genus Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Mursala Island, Indonesia

Cyrtodactylus mursalensis 

Muammar, Martamenggala, Siregar, Pradana, Putra, Hamidy, Smith & Riyanto, 2026

Cicak Jari Lengkung Pulau Mursala | DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5878.4.6 

 

Abstract

Here we describe a new bent-toed gecko of the genus Cyrtodactylus from Mursala, a small island adjacent to Sumatra, Indonesia. The new species is easily distinguished from its congeners by its known maximum SVL 100 mm, tubercles present on dorsal surface of brachium, ventrolateral body folds present, 20–22 irregular dorsal tubercle rows at midbody, 34–35 paravertebral tubercles series, 38–42 ventral scale rows across belly, precloacal depression in slit form, single precloacal pore sunken into precloacal depression present in male, absent in female, females with a single large elongated apical precloacal scale, abrupt transition between the enlarged femorals and the adjacent scales on the posterior margin of the thigh, 23–24 subdigital lamellae on fourth toe, and lacking median enlarge subequal scales.

Reptilia, Cyrtodactylus, Mursala Island, Sumatra, endemic

Holotype of Cyrtodactylus mursalensis sp. nov. MZB.Lace15711.
 (A) Dorsolateral view. (B) Dorsal view in head down orientation.

Photographs by Muammar.

Cyrtodactylus mursalaensis sp. nov.  

Recommended English common name: Mursala’s Bent-toed Gecko 

Recommended Indonesia common name: Cicak Jari Lengkung Pulau Mursala

Diagnosis. The following combination of characters distinguishes C. mursalaensis sp. nov. from all other congeners: adult male reaching 99.2 mm SVL and female 100 mm SVL; tubercles present on dorsal surface of brachium; ventrolateral body folds present; 20–22 irregular dorsal tubercle rows at midbody; 34–35 paravertebral tubercles series; 38–42 ventral scale rows across belly; precloacal depression in slit form; single precloacal pore sunken into precloacal depression present in male, absent in female; Females with a single large elongated apical precloacal scale; abrupt transition between the enlarged femorals and the adjacent scales on the posterior margin of the thigh; 23–24 subdigital lamellae on fourth toe; and subequal median subcaudal scales not transversely enlarged.

 Habitat of Cyrtodactylus mursalensis sp. nov. in Mursala Island, Indonesia.

Photographs by Muammar.

Muammar MUAMMAR, Andri I.S. MARTAMENGGALA, Akhmad J. SIREGAR, Tengku G. PRADANA, Chairunas A. PUTRA, Amir HAMIDY, Eric N. SMITH and Awal RIYANTO. 2026. Description of New Species of Bent-toed Gecko Genus Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Mursala Island, Indonesia.  Zootaxa. 5878(4); 573-588. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5878.4.6 [2026-09-16]

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

 

Bryobium scutatum  Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit.,

in Schuiteman, Mustaqim et Champion, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

  facebook.com: Jeffrey Champion 

Abstract

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  facebook.com/JeffreyChampion5/posts/27836172582738337

 Researchgate.net/publication/408315562_A_new_species_of_Bryobium_from_Gayo_Plateau_Sumatra

  

[Botany • 2025] Impatiens bungerara (Balsaminaceae) • A New Species with flame-coloured flowers from Sumatra, Indonesia [Flora of Gayo Plateau I]

Impatiens bungerara Mustaqim

in Mustaqim, 2025.

openjournals.library.sydney.edu.au/TEL 

facebook.com/botanywam

Abstract

Impatiens bungerara Mustaqim (Balsaminaceae) is described here as a new endemic species from the northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra, Indonesia. The new species is similar to I. vitellina Grey-Wilson but differs by branched stems, hairs in leaves and peduncles, and several flower morphologies. A detailed description, discussion, and colour photographs are given.

Keywords: herbs, montane plants, taxonomy, West Malesia, Impatiens, Balsaminaceae

Impatiens bungerara Mustaqim sp. nov.

Wendy Achmmad Mustaqim. 2025. Flora of Gayo Plateau I: A New Impatiens (Balsaminaceae) Species with flame-coloured flowers from Sumatra, Indonesia.  Telopea. 29; 173–176. DOI: 10.7751/telopea21366

https://openjournals.library.sydney.edu.au/TEL/article/view/20712

 facebook.com/botanywam/posts/1212990170649810

 Researchgate.net/publication/392363916_A_new_Impatiens_species_from_Sumatra_Indonesia

Abstrak: Impatiens bungerara Mustaqim (Balsaminaceae) dipertelakan di dalam tulisan ini sebagai spesies tumbuhan endemik Dataran Tinggi Gayo bagian utara, Sumatra, Indonesia. Spesies baru ini serupa dengan I. vitellina Grey-Wilson, tetapi berbeda karena batang yang bercabang, rambut pada daun dan tangkai perbungaan, dan beberapa morfologi bunga. Sebuah pertelaan rinci, diskusi, dan foto-foto berwarna disajikan.

Kata kunci, herba, Malesia Barat, taksonomi, tumbuhan pegunungan 

[Botany • 2026] Homalomena lingua-felis (Araceae: Philodendreae) • A New densely-haired aroid Species of Homalomena from North Sumatra, Indonesia

 

Homalomena lingua-felis A.S.D.Irsyam, Raynalta & M.R.Hariri, 

in Muzzazinah, Damayanti, Fadhil, Raynalta, Husaini, Rivai, Setiawan, Irsyam, Rosleine, Pratami, Hariri et Ariati, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.271.172410

Abstract

Homalomena lingua-felis is newly described from Tapanuli (North Sumatra Province, Indonesia). This species resembles H. pexa from which can be easily distinguished by its shorter petiole (2.0–4.5 cm vs. 7.0–12 cm), papillate petiole (vs. densely white-tomentose), elliptic or cordate to ovate leaf shape (vs. oblong- to ovate-cordiform), papillate abaxial leaf surface (vs. sparsely hairy), papillate veins (vs. tomentose), papillate peduncle and spathe (vs. tomentose), pendulous peduncle (vs. semi-erect to declinate), and conical staminate flower zone (vs. ellipsoid). This novelty represents a continuation of discoveries on hairy Homalomena in Sumatra.

Key words: Araceae, Chamaecladon, Indonesia, Malesia, Philodendreae

Homalomena lingua-felis A.S.D.Irsyam, Raynalta & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.
A. Habit; B. Adaxial surface of leaf showing dense hairs; C. Bulbous hair in adaxial leaf surface (59.4×); D. Papillose abaxial leaf surface (59.4×); E. Pendulous synflorescence; F. Bloom at late staminate anthesis with half and full spathe artificially removed; G. Bloom at late pistillate anthesis with half spathe artificially removed (20.7×).

Photos by Erick Raynalta (A, B, E) and Muhammad Rifqi Hariri (C, D, F, G).

Homalomena lingua-felis A.S.D.Irsyam, Raynalta & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Homalomena lingua-felis is similar to H. pexa but differs by having shorter petiole (2.0–4.5 cm vs. 7.0–12 cm), papillate petiole (vs. densely white-tomentose), elliptic or cordate to ovate leaf shape (vs. oblong- to ovate-cordiform), papillate abaxial leaf surface (vs. sparsely hairy), papillate veins (vs. tomentose), papillate peduncle and spathe (vs. tomentose), pendulous peduncle (vs. semi-erect to declinate), and conical staminate flower zone (vs. ellipsoid).

Etymology. The specific epithet lingua-felis is derived from the Latin lingua (tongue) and feles (cat), in reference to the characteristic texture of the leaf surface, which bears a resemblance to the rough surface of a feline tongue.

 Muzzazinah, Inggar Damayanti, Muhammad Hisyam Fadhil, Erick Raynalta, Iin Pertiwi Amin Husaini, Reza Ramdan Rivai, Ade Agus Setiawan, Arifin Surya Dwipa Irsyam, Dian Rosleine, Mentari Putri Pratami, Muhammad Rifqi Hariri and Siti Roosita Ariati. 2026. A New densely-haired aroid Species of Homalomena (Araceae) from North Sumatra, Indonesia. PhytoKeys. 271: 161-172. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.271.172410 [02 Mar 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Homalomena bungamerah (Araceae: Philodendreae) • A New Species from Northern Sumatra, Indonesia

 Homalomena bungamerah Mustaqim, A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri,

in Mustaqim, Irsyam, Pratama, Surbakti et Hariri. 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2160 

Abstract

A new litophytic species of Homalomena from Sumatra, Homalomena bungamerah, is described. The new species is unique in having a plicate verrucose upper leaf surface combined with the absence of interpistillar staminodes. Owing to the ongoing threats and small population, H. bungamerah is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR B2 ab(iii,v)). Morphological descriptions, photographs, and notes are given.

Keyword: aroids, Homalomena asperifolia, Homalomena mobula, Homalomena scutata, herbs, litophyte, west Malesia

Morphology of Homalomena bungamerah Mustaqim, A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.
 A. Living plant. B. Leaf, adaxial. C. Leaf, abaxial. D. Leaf, adaxial texture. E. Leaf, close up of abaxial. F. Close-up of petiole ribs. G. Synflorescence showing spathe which is nodding at anthesis. H. Synflorescence. I. Inflorescence, front view. J. Inflorescence, lateral view. K. Spadix with spathe removed. L. Female spadix zone. M. Male spadix zone.

Photographs by Wendy A. Mustaqim.

Homalomena bungamerah Mustaqim, A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov. 

 Diagnosis: This species is unique in having large and plicate leaves, a spathe that nodding at anthesis, and pistillate flowers without an interpistillar staminode. The most morphologically similar species is H. mobula P.C.Boyce 1/2), the larger leaf lamina (16.5–25.8 × 7.7–14.6 cm vs. 7.5–12 × 2.5–6 cm), and the absence of interpistillar staminodes. 

 

Etymology: The specific epithet “bunga merah” is derived from the Malay language, reflecting the inflorescence (“bunga”) with red (“merah”) peduncle and spathe. Malay is the indigenous language in Langkat Regency, where the type material was collected.  

Wendy A. Mustaqim, Arifin S.D. Irsyam, Muhammad A. Pratama, Irwansyah Surbakti and Muhammad R. Hariri. 2026. Homalomena bungamerah (Araceae), A New Species from Northern Sumatra, Indonesia. Taiwania. 71(2); 209-212 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.209 [16 March 2026]

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2160

[Mollusca • 2025] Chamalycaeus aduncus • The First Record of an Operculate Micro Land Snail from the Alycaeinae (Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoridae) in Cambodia

 

Chamalycaeus aduncus Jirapatrasilp,   

in Jirapatrasilp, Thi, Chantha, Chourn, Sophea, Jeratthitikul, Pholyotha, Siriwut, Srisonchai, Panha et Sutcharit, 2025. 

www.ruthenica.net/node/6016

 Researchgate.net/publication/390396808 

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This study reports the first record of the operculate micro land snail from the Alycaeinae, Chamalycaeus aduncus Jirapatrasilp sp. nov., also the first new species of the genus in Cambodia, based on a recent survey in Battambang. This new species is similar to Chamalycaeus excisus (Möllendorff, 1887) and C. excisus sublimus Páll-Gergely et Auffenberg, 2019 from the Philippines, in shell size and shape, and the strongly downwards coiling of R3, but differs in having a shorter R2 without any blunt keel, a round aperture without any incision, and a beak- or hook-like basal edge of the outer peristome. 

Keywords: Battambang; Cyclophoroidea; Gastropoda; Mollusca; taxonomy

Chamalycaeus aduncus sp. nov.
A paratype CUMZ 14462/1, and B paratype CUMZ 14462/2, showing a scraping hole at the umbilical side.

. Representative SEM images of Chamalycaeus aduncus sp. nov., holotype CUMZ 14461
 A whole shell in different positions, and B Close-up images of the aperture; white arrows pointing to the beak- or hook-like basal edge of the outer peristome.

Chamalycaeus aduncus Jirapatrasilp sp. nov.

 

Parin JIRAPATRASILP, Sothearen THI, Nasak CHANTHA, Phyroum CHOURN, Chhin SOPHEA, Ekgachai JERATTHITIKUL, Arthit PHOLYOTHA, Warut SIRIWUT, Ruttapon SRISONCHAI, Somsak PANHA and Chirasak SUTCHARIT. 2025. The First Record of an Operculate Micro Land Snail from the Alycaeinae (Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoridae) in Cambodia, with Description of A New Species of Chamalycaeus von Möllendorff, 1897. Ruthenica Russian Malacological Journal. 35(2); 65-72. https://www.ruthenica.net/node/6016

 Researchgate.net/publication/390396808_The_first_record_of_an_operculate_micro_land_snail_from_the_Alycaeinae_Cyclophoridae_in_Cambodia

 facebook.com/ASRUChula/posts/1081408774003851

[Mollusca • 2026] Operculate Land Snails (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoroidea) from Padang Bindu Karst, South Sumatra, Indonesia with the Description of A New Species, Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu

 

c. Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu Aulia & Nurinsiyah, sp. nov.;
d. C. korintjiensis (Páll-Gergely, 2020), holotype (ZMA.MOLL 135672).
a. Stomacosmethis cf. jagori (E. von Martens, 1860); b. S. jagori (E. von Martens, 1860), syntype (SMF 109304); 

in Aulia, Nurinsiyah, Mujiono, Páll-Gergely et Ambarwati, 2026.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1272.179378

Abstract

The study on Cyclophoroidea from Padang Bindu Karst, South Sumatra, was conducted to document the species diversity of the superfamily in the area. The samples, including leaf litter and soil samples, were collected in May–June 2021 and followed by the determination and examination on 2023 to 2024 in the Museum Zoologicum Bogoriense. In total 3,780 specimens from the superfamily Cyclophoroidea were examined. Measurements of the shell and operculum were performed using L.A.S V4. 13.0 and IMAGE J. The research revealed 11 species from three families (Cyclophoridae, Diplomatinidae, Pupinidae) and four subfamilies. Plectostoma kitteli is the most abundant species followed by Stomacosmethis cf. jagori (19.84%) and Diplommatina liwaensis (6.67%). A new species, Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu Aulia & Nurinsiyah, sp. nov. is described. The study also discovered four species endemics to Sumatra with one species among them so far only recorded from Padang Bindu karst area. These findings emphasize the region’s unique biodiversity.

Key words: Biodiversity, conservation, limestone, molluscs, operculum

Shells of Alycaeinae. a. Stomacosmethis cf. jagori (E. von Martens, 1860); b. Stomacosmethis jagori (E. von Martens, 1860), syntype (SMF 109304);
c. Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu sp. nov.; d. Chamalycaeus korintjiensis (Páll-Gergely, 2020), holotype (ZMA.MOLL 135672).

Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu Aulia & Nurinsiyah, sp. nov.

Habitat. Limestone rocks.

Distribution. The species is so far only recorded from Padang Bindu Karst, South Sumatra.

Etymology. The species name Dayang Merindu was inspired by Princess Dayang Merindu, a figure from local folklore. According to the legend, Princess Dayang Merindu ignored the greeting of a man, as she was already married. Her action was then perceived as arrogance, and the man cursed her into stone. The stone associated with this tale is located inside Gua Putri, a karst cave formation in the Padang Bindu area.

 Latifah Nurul Aulia, Ayu Savitri Nurinsiyah, Nova Mujiono, Barna Páll-Gergely and Reni Ambarwati. 2026. Operculate Land Snails (Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoroidea) from Padang Bindu Karst, South Sumatra, Indonesia with the Description of A New Species, Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu. ZooKeys. 1272: 1-31. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1272.179378 [02 Mar 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Corybas gayoensis (Orchidaceae) • A New narrow endemic Orchid from Sumatra, Indonesia [Flora of Gayo Plateau II]

Corybas gayoensis  

in Mustaqim, Arico, Silviana, Afriyani, Yudistira et Victoriano, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.726.1.5  

 facebook.com/botanywam

 

Abstract

A new species, Corybas gayoensis is described here as endemic to the northern part of Sumatra. The new species is similar to Corybas pictus, but differs in having acuminate dorsal sepals with dentate upper margin, labellum with light red and concave central part, and a long fimbriate margin. The species is assessed as Critically Endangered due to its narrow distribution, continuous decline of population and habitat degradation. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, photographs, and discussion are given.

geophyte, montane plant, taxonomy, western Malesia, flora of Indonesia, Monocots

Wendy A. MUSTAQIM, Zulfan ARICO, Adinda SILVIANA, Linda AFRIYANI, Yuda R. YUDISTIRA and Malcolm VICTORIANO. 2025. Flora of Gayo Plateau II: Corybas gayoensis (Orchidaceae), A New narrow endemic Orchid from Sumatra.  Phytotaxa. 726(1); 53-58. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.726.1.5 [2025-10-29]  

 facebook.com/botanywam/posts/1210043520944475

[Botany • 2025] Begonia elegantifolia (Begoniaceae, sect. Platycentrum) • A New Species from northern Sumatra, Indonesia

 Begonia elegantifolia Ritonga, Girm. & Mustaqim.

in Ritonga, Girmansyah et Mustaqim, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.720.1.9   

instagram.com/floraindonesia_id 

 

Abstract

A new species of Begonia is described from lowland northern Sumatra, Indonesia named Begonia elegantifolia Ritonga, Girm. & Mustaqim. The species belongs to section Platycentrum and is unique from other species in having a combination of narrowly lanceolate leaves and flowers with six tepals. The new species is the first species in sect. Platycentrum that posseses staminate flowers with six tepals. Detailed description, diagnoses and photographs are given.

Cucurbitales, herb, lowland, Malesia, taxonomy, Eudicots

Begonia elegantifolia Ritonga, Girm. & Mustaqim sp. nov.

 

Yusran E. RITONGA, Deden GIRMANSYAH and Wendy A. MUSTAQIM. 2025. Begonia elegantifolia (Begoniaceae), A New Species from northern Sumatra, Indonesia.  Phytotaxa. 720(1); 87-92. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.720.1.9 [2025-09-26]

instagram.com/p/DPD8m3dk6hc/floraindonesia_id

[Botany • 2025] Rigiolepis bungeputih (Ericaceae: Vaccinieae) • A New Species from northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra, Indonesia

Rigiolepis bungeputih Mustaqim & M.N.Tamayo, 

in Mustaqim, Tamayo, Arico et Fritsch, 2025.

  https://openjournals.library.sydney.edu.au/TEL 

 Researchgate.net/publication/391492519

Photos: Wendy A. Mustaqim.

Abstract

Rigiolepis bungeputih Mustaqim & M.N.Tamayo, a close relative of blueberries (Vaccinium L.) and endemic to the tropical evergreen mossy rainforest of northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra, Indonesia, is here described. It closely resembles R. gayoensis Mustaqim, M.N.Tamayo & P.W.Fritsch, but differs by having a glabrous stem, larger leaves, glabrous pedicels, white corollas, and larger stamens. Photographs, an illustration, and a detailed morphological description are included. Rigiolepis bungeputih represents the second endemic Rigiolepis Hook.f. species known from the island of Sumatra. This discovery raises the number of Rigiolepis species found in this island to four. A discussion on the ovary character of Rigiolepis in view of ongoing molecular studies is presented.

Keywords: blueberry, Malesia, taxonomy, tropical rainforest, Rigiolepis, Vaccinium

Rigiolepis bungeputih.
A. Habitat and epiphytic habit (plant indicated by a blue arrow). B. Branchlet showing leaf adaxial surface. C, D. Branchlet showing leaf abaxial surface and inflorescence. E. Inflorescence, lateral view. F. Flower, anterior view. G. Immature infructescence. H. One mature (left) and two immature (right) fruits. I. Cross section of fruit showing a pseudo-10-locular ovary.

Photos: Wendy A. Mustaqim.

 Illustration of Rigiolepis bungeputih based on the type material (W.A. Mustaqim 2719).
A. Flowering branchlet. B. Leaf (adaxial view). C. Leaf (abaxial view). D. Lateral view of inflorescence. E. Flower (lateral view). F. Flower (anterior view). G. Stamen (ventral view). H. Stamen (dorsal view). I. Fruit cross section showing a pseudo-10-locular ovary.

Illustration by Maverick N. Tamayo.

Rigiolepis bungeputih Mustaqim & M.N.Tamayo, sp. nov.

Type: INDONESIA: Sumatra Island, Aceh Province, AcehTengah Regency, Jagong Jeget Subdistrict, ..., 2310 m elevation, 15 June 2023,W.A. Mustaqim 2719 (holotype: LGS; isotype: UIDEP).

Diagnosis: Rigiolepis bungeputih closely resembles R. gayoensis but differs by having a glabrous stem (vs pubescent),larger leaves (60–72 × 35–40 vs 46–55 × 22–25 mm), glabrouspedicels (vs pubescent on 1/2 to 3/5 of pedicel length), whitecorollas (vs red), and larger stamens (1.8–2.1 vs 1.5–1.7 mm) 

Etymology: The epithet “bungeputih” is derived from the Gayonese words “bunge” (flowers) and “putih” (white), in reference to the white corolla of the species.

Wendy A. Mustaqim, Maverick Narceda Tamayo, Zulfan C. Arico and Peter W. Fritsch. 2025. Rigiolepis bungeputih (Ericaceae: Vaccinieae), A New Species from northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra, Indonesia.  Telopea. 29; 119–125. 
 https://openjournals.library.sydney.edu.au/TEL/article/view/20201

 facebook.com/61558740376893/posts/122182653074291345

 Researchgate.net/publication/391492519_Rigiolepis_bungeputih_a_new_species_from_northern_Gayo_Plateau_Sumatra_Indonesia

[Ornithology • 2025] Birds of a feather: Comprehensive Plumage Colour Analysis for A Revised Subspecies Classification of the Chestnut-winged Babbler Cyanoderma erythropterum species complex

Map of Southeast Asia showing type localities (large flag markers) and collection localities of museum specimens (small circles) for the various taxa described under Cyanoderma erythropterum and C. bicolor.

 

in Teo, Sin, Nieves et Rheindt, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.avrs.2025.100307 

Images of Babblers modified from Eaton et al. (2016).

 

ABSTRACT

Quantitative analysis of colouration is an essential tool for subspecies delimitation but has always posed a challenge in avian taxonomy. In this study on the Chestnut-winged Babbler (Cyanoderma erythropterum) species complex from tropical Southeast Asia, we made use of colour measurements taken with digital cameras and applied two methodologies—(1) the 75% subspecies rule on quantitative colourimetric variables, and (2) the CIEDE2000 colour distance method to generate phylograms, which has probably never been applied in taxonomy before. Given its large number of described subspecies, many of which have been synonymised in modern taxonomies, the species complex serves as an appropriate model to test subspecies validity. Our data indicate that one synonymised subspecies (C. e. apega), from the islands of Bangka and Belitung, requires re-instalment and recognition, whereas one widely recognised subspecies (C. e. fulviventre), from the Banyak Islands, should be synonymised. Our approach also allowed us to redraw geographic subspecies boundaries. Our work indicates that current subspecies taxonomies of many poorly known tropical species may remain error-ridden and highlights the importance and viability of large-scale taxonomic revisions targeting avian subspecies globally while incorporating quantitative colourimetric approaches.

Keywords: Chestnut-winged Babbler, Colour distance, Subspecies boundaries, Subspecies rule, Taxonomy

Map of Southeast Asia showing type localities (large flag markers) and collection localities of museum specimens (small circles) for the various taxa described under Cyanoderma erythropterum and C. bicolor.
Flag markers are positioned precisely at type localities except in the case of C. e. pyrrhophaeum, whose type locality is ill-defined as ‘Sumatra’. Subspecies that are widely synonymised are shown with the same colour (both in font and type locality flag) as the taxon under which they are usually subsumed. Underlined names refer to subspecies that have widely been accepted prior to this study. Red dots indicate the localities of specimens from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (Singapore), while light-blue dots indicate the localities of specimens from other museums. Black stippled lines represent subspecies boundaries widely followed prior to this study, while yellow stippled lines represent revised subspecies boundaries proposed in this study. The dark-grey shaded area in Borneo reflects remaining uncertainty around the boundary between C. b. bicolor and C. b. rufum.

Images of babblers modified from Eaton et al. (2016).

Conclusions: 

Our results validate the current synonymisation of neocarum and sordidum with erythropterum, and of pellum with pyrrhophaeum. Our data also show that a widely recognised subspecies, fulviventre from the Banyak Islands, is indistinct in plumage and should be synonymised with pyrrhophaeum. Subspecies apega from the Bangka and Belitung islands is widely synonymised in modern taxonomies, but emerged as distinct in its crown colouration, exhibiting a pattern that would render it intermediate between C. erythropterum and C. bicolor. We advocate a resurrection of this subspecies, and confirm its placement within C. erythropterum on the basis of vocal data. Our examination of specimens indicates that the subspecies boundary between rufum and bicolor is much further south than widely assumed, although we do not rule out the possibility that rufum may form part of a cline of crown colour across Borneo.

The following is our proposed subspecies taxonomy for the Chestnut-winged Babbler (Cyanoderma erythropterum) complex:

● Cyanoderma erythropterum (Blyth, 1842): 

Chestnut-winged Babbler

○ C. e. erythropterum (Blyth, 1842) – Type locality: Singapore

■ Range: Thai-Malay Peninsula, Singapore, Riau Islands, Natuna Islands

■ Synonyms: sordidum Baker, 1917; neocarum Oberholser, 1932

○ C. e. pyrrhophaeum (Hartlaub, 1844) – Type locality: “Malacca and Sumatra” (here restricted to Sumatra, as Malacca was a trading hub)

■ Range: Sumatra, Batu and Banyak Islands

■ Synonyms: pellum Oberholser, 1912; eripellum Oberholser, 1922; fulviventre Richmond, 1903

■ Main diagnosis: Grey breast darker than erythropterum

○ C. e. apega Oberholser, 1922 – Type locality: Tanjong Tedong, Bangka Island

■ Range: Bangka Island and Belitung Island

■ Main diagnosis: Incomplete chestnut crown with front half being slate grey unlike complete chestnut crown in erythropterum and pyrrhophaeum

● Cyanoderma bicolor (Blyth, 1865): 

Bicoloured Babbler

○ C. b. bicolor (Blyth, 1865) – Type locality: Labuan (Malaysian Borneo)

■ Range: Northern and central Borneo, Banggi Island

○ C. b. rufum (Chasen & Kloss, 1927) – Type locality: Sampit, south coast of Kalimantan

■ Range: Southern Borneo, likely found only across the Central Kalimantan Depression

■ Main diagnosis: Rufous colouration extending to the nape, and even to some extent to the crown, unlike the grey colouration observed in bicolor

Shen Han Teo, Yong Chee Keita Sin, Mayjean Marie Ines Nieves and Frank E. Rheindt. 2025. Birds of a feather: Comprehensive Plumage Colour Analysis for A Revised Subspecies Classification of the Chestnut-winged Babbler (Cyanoderma erythropterum) species complex. Avian Research. In Press, 100307. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.avrs.2025.100307  [4 October 2025]

[Botany • 2025] Homalomena siaisensis (Araceae) • One name, many faces: the dolphin case of Homalomena siaisensis in ornamental trade

Homalomena siaisensis A.S.D.Irsyam, M.R.Hariri &Raynalta,

in Irsyam, Raynalta et Hariri, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.36253/jopt-17743 

Abstract

Homalomena siaisensis is a newly described species of Sumatran aroid. The species was discovered in January 2024 from South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This small lithophytic species has recently gained attention in the ornamental plant trade, where it is informally known as Homalomena ‘Dolphin Skin’ and frequently marketed via social media platforms. The species is formally described and illustrated in the present work.

Keywords: Araceae, Malesia, Ornamental, Philodendreae, Sumatra

Homalomena siaisensis A.S.D.Irsyam, M.R.Hariri &Raynalta, sp. nov.

Arifin S.D. Irsyam, Erick Raynalta and Muhammad R. Hariri. 2025. One name, many faces: the dolphin case of Homalomena siaisensis in ornamental trade. Webbia. Journal of Plant Taxonomy and Geography. 80(2); 291-294. DOI: doi.org/10.36253/jopt-17743  [2025-07-18]