[Botany • 2021] Cornukaempferia argentifolia (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Northern Thailand

Cornukaempferia argentifolia Boonma & Saensouk, 

in Saensouk, Saensouk & Boonma, 2021.

 rheedea.in 

  facebook.com/ThewThawatphong

 

Abstract

Cornukaempferia argentifolia, a new species of Zingiberaceae from northern Thailand, is described and illustrated along with photographs, notes on its distribution, ecology, and IUCN conservation status. An identification key to the species of Cornukaempferia Mood & K.Larsen in Thailand and a distribution map are also presented.

Keywords: Cornukaempferia kamolwaniae, Cornukaempferia larsenii, Endangered, Phitsanulok province.

Cornukaempferia argentifolia Boonma & Saensouk:
a. Habit with flowers and underground parts; b. Front view of flower; c. Bract; d. Calyx; e. Dorsal corolla lobe; f. Lateral corolla lobes; g. Lateral staminodes; h. Labellum; i. Front and side view of anther; j. Ovary with epigynous glands

 (from T. Boonma 23; drawn by T. Boonma).

Cornukaempferia argentifolia Boonma & Saensouk:
a. Habit; b. Cross-section of rhizome; c. Flowers;  

(from T. Boonma 23; photos by T. Boonma).

Cornukaempferia argentifolia Boonma & Saensouk:
 d. (from left to right) side view and front view of anther with calyx, (upper row) inner side of dorsal corolla lobe, lateral corolla lobes, lateral staminodes, and upper side of the labellum, (lower row) outer side of dorsal corolla lobe, lateral corolla lobes, lateral staminodes, lower side of the labellum, and bract

(from T. Boonma 23; photo by T. Boonma).

Cornukaempferia argentifolia Boonma & Saensouk, sp.nov. 

 Similar to Cornukaempferia larsenii P. Saensouk but differs by its leaves (adaxially silver without markings vs. green with few silvery markings adaxially), bracts (glabrous vs. sparsely hairy), corolla tube (finely hairy vs. glabrous), labellum (obovate with emarginate apex vs. campanuloid with rounded apex) and filaments (finely hairy vs. glabrous).

Habitat: Occurring at elevations of 420 meters above sea level, growing in sandy loam soil, moist and close to the watercourse in a deciduous forest. 

Distribution: Hitherto endemic to northern Thailand (Fig. 3).

 Etymology: The specific epithet “argentifolia” is derived from two Latin words, “argenti” meaning “silver” and “folia” meaning “leaves” and refers to its silvery leaves. เปราะทองใบเงิน

Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk and Thawatphong Boonma. 2021. Cornukaempferia argentifolia (Zingiberaceae), A New Species from Northern Thailand. Rheedea. 31(4); DOI: 10.22244/rheedea.2021.31.04.03

 rheedea.in/journal/nwt5uBie

  facebook.com/ThewThawatphong/posts/2486103921526080

[Botany • 2022] Ipomoea aequatoriensis (Convolvulaceae) • Discovery and Characterisation of Sweetpotato’s Closest Tetraploid Relative

 Ipomoea aequatoriensis T.Wells & P.Muñoz, 

in Munoz-Rodriguez, Wells, Wood, et al., 2022. 

DOI: 10.1111/nph.17991  

 twitter.com/PabloMuRod  

 OX.ac.uk 

SUMMARY

• The origin of sweetpotato, a hexaploid species, is poorly understood, partly because the identity of its tetraploid progenitor remains unknown. In this study, we identify, describe and characterise a new species of Ipomoea that is sweetpotato’s closest tetraploid relative known to date and probably a direct descendant of its tetraploid progenitor.

• We integrate morphological, phylogenetic, and genomic analyses of herbarium and germplasm accessions of the hexaploid sweetpotato, its closest known diploid relative Ipomoea trifida, and various tetraploid plants closely related to them from across the American continent.

• We identify wild autotetraploid plants from Ecuador that are morphologically distinct from I. batatas and I. trifida, but monophyletic and sister to I. batatas in phylogenetic analysis of nuclear data.

• We describe this new species as Ipomoea aequatoriensis T.Wells & P.Muñoz sp. nov., distinguish it from hybrid tetraploid material collected in Mexico; and show that it likely played a direct role in the origin of sweetpotato’s hexaploid genome. This discovery transforms our understanding of sweetpotato’s origin.

Keywords: crop wild relatives, Ecuador, genomics, herbarium specimens, Ipomoea aequatoriensis new species, tetraploid

 Ipomoea aequatoriensis T.Wells & P.Muñoz sp. nov.

 

Pablo Munoz-Rodriguez, Tom Wells, John R.I. Wood, Tom Carruthers, Noelle L. Anglin, Robert L. Jarret and Robert W. Scotland. 2022. Discovery and Characterisation of Sweetpotato’s Closest Tetraploid Relative. New Phytologist. DOI: 10.1111/nph.17991

  twitter.com/PabloMuRod/status/1485954407879565313

Mystery of sweetpotato origin uncovered, as missing link plant found by Oxford research

  OX.ac.uk/news/2022-01-24-mystery-sweetpotato-origin-uncovered-missing-link-plant-found-oxford-research

[Invertebrate • 2022] Ramisyllis kingghidorahi • A New Branching Annelid (Annelida: Polychaeta: Syllidae) from Japan

Ramisyllis kingghidorahi Aguado, Ponz-Segrelles, Glasby, Ribeiro, Jimi & Miura,

in Aguado, Ponz-Segrelles, Glasby, ... et Miura, 2022. 

DOI: 10.1007/s13127-021-00538-4

 twitter.com/MTAguado

Abstract

Among over 20,000 species of Annelida, only two branching species with a highly modified body-pattern are known until now: the Syllidae Syllis ramosa McIntosh, 1879, and Ramisyllis multicaudata Glasby et al. (Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 164, 481–497, 2012). Both have unusual ramified bodies with one head and multiple branches and live inside the canals of host sponges. Using an integrative approach (combining morphology, internal anatomy, ecology, phylogeny, genetic divergence, and the complete mitochondrial genome), we describe a new branching species from Japan, Ramisyllis kingghidorahi n. sp., inhabiting an undescribed species of Petrosia (Porifera: Demospongiae) from shallow waters. We compare the new species with its closest relative, R. multicaudata; emend the diagnosis of Ramisyllis; and discuss previous reports of S. ramosa. This study suggests a much higher diversity of branching syllids than currently known. Finally, we discuss possible explanations for the feeding behaviour in the new species in relation to its highly ciliated wall of the digestive tubes (especially at the distal branches and anus), and provide a hypothesis for the evolution of branching body patterns as the result of an adaptation to the host sponge labyrinthic canal system.

Keywords: Mitochondrial genome, Phylogenetics, Sponge, Syllidae, Symbiosis, Morphology, Anatomy, Ecology

Taxonomy

Ramisyllis Glasby et al., 2012

Diagnosis (after Glasby et al. (2012), emendations in bold).

“Ribbon clade” Syllinae, with non-flattened body, more or less cylindrical segments and a multiaxial, dendriform pattern; first branch occurring after segments 14–24. Branches emerging after parapodia (not replacing them or dorsal cirri) and showing same segment size and cirri length as previous branches. Three antennae; palps free to base; two pairs of tentacular cirri; pharynx slender, mid-dorsal tooth absent in adults; dorsal cirri articulated, with alternating thick/slender pattern on mid-body and posterior segments; ventral cirri present, not articulated, inserted proximally; single type of simple chaeta present, tomahawk-shaped. Sexes separate. Reproduction by schizogamy, gemmiparitity. Acerous, dimorphic stolons. Commensal inside shallow water species of Petrosia. Mitochondrial gene order strongly modified. Nuclear ribosomal sequences highly derived compared to other Syllinae.

Stereomicroscopy images of living specimens of Ramisyllis kingghidorahi n. sp. (A, C−H) and Ramisyllis multicaudata (B) for comparison.
A Ramisyllis kingghidorahi n. sp. Holotype. B R. multicaudata anterior region, dorsal view; picture modified from Ponz-Segrelles et al. (2021), with permission. C Prostomium and first segments in detail, dorsal view. D Anterolateral view of prostomium with details of palps and pharynx everted. E and F. Pharynx everted in ventral view. G Branching asymmetries in dorsal cirri. H Branching asymmetries in body shape.

Scale bars: 1 mm A, B, 200 µm C, D, 100 µm E, F, 2 mm G, H

Ramisyllis kingghidorahi n. sp. and host sponge Petrosia sp.
A Anterior region in dorsal view, prostomium faces down. B Fragment of one specimen. C-F–f Host sponges in their natural habitat.

Scale bars: 2 mm A, B, 1 cm C, D and 5 mm E, F

Ramisyllis kingghidorahi n. sp. Aguado, Ponz-Segrelles, Glasby, Ribeiro, Jimi & Miura

Diagnosis: Species of Ramisyllis, sister-group related to R. multicaudata, long anterior tentacular and dorsal cirri (twice long as midbody ones), long proventricle (through 4 segments), stolon stalks similar to other segments in regular branches and proliferation of new branches in intersegmental areas.

Etymology: The name refers to King Ghidorah, the three-headed and two-tailed monster enemy of Godzilla. Both characters were created by Tomoyuki Tanaka based on Japanese mythology and folklore. King Ghidorah is a branching fictitious animal that can regenerate its lost ends. King Ghidorah is assumed to be a male and latinized accordingly.

Distribution and habitat: Coastal waters of Sado Island, Japan, around 15 m deep; symbiont of Petrosia sp. (pink form).

M. Teresa Aguado, Guillermo Ponz-Segrelles, Christopher J. Glasby, Rannyele P. Ribeiro, Mayuko Nakamura, Kohei Oguchi, Akihito Omori, Hisanori Kohtsuka, Christian Fisher, Yuji Ise, Naoto Jimi and Toru Miura. 2022. Ramisyllis kingghidorahi n. sp., A New Branching Annelid from Japan. 

Organisms Diversity & Evolution. DOI: 10.1007/s13127-021-00538-4

 twitter.com/MTAguado/status/1483797219497156608

[Entomology • 2022] Phlogis kibalensis • A New Species of the Unusual Leafhopper Genus Phlogis Linnavuori (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Signoretiinae) from Uganda

Phlogis kibalensis

Helden, 2022

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5093.4.1

 

Abstract

Phlogis kibalensis sp. nov. from Kibale National Park, Uganda is described and illustrated. It differs from the other species of the genus known from Africa (P. mirabilis) in the shape of the aedeagus, in particular the shape of the sub-apical lateral processes, as well as in style shape and some aspects of colouration.

Keywords: Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, new species, East Africa, Phlogisini.

  

 

Alvin J. Helden. 2022. A New Species of the Unusual Leafhopper Genus Phlogis Linnavuori (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Signoretiinae) from Uganda. Zootaxa. 5093(4); 401-413. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5093.4.1

theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/27/british-scientist-finds-new-species-of-rare-leafhopper-in-uganda

[Herpetology • 2021] Gephyromantis pedronoi • Target-enriched DNA Sequencing Clarifies the Identity of Name-bearing Types of the Gephyromantis plicifer complex (Anura: Mantellidae) and reveals A New Species of Mantellid Frog from Madagascar

Gephyromantis (Duboimantis) pedronoi 

Vences, Köhler, Andreone, Craul, Crottini, du Preez, Preick, Rancilhac, Rödel, Scherz, Streicher, Hofreiter & Glaw, 2021

 Spixiana. 44(2); 175-202. 

 Researchgate.net/publication/357328981

 twitter.com/MarkScherz

Mantellid frogs of the Madagascar-endemic Gephyromantis plicifer complex consist of three nominal species (G. luteus, G. plicifer and G. sculpturatus) as well as several genetically divergent lineages (candidate species), but uncertainties surround the identity of the name-bearing types of all three established nomina. We applied laboratory techniques to isolate archival DNA from the three old, liquidpreserved, name-bearing type specimens and conducted target-enriched DNA sequencing of a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene as basis for the revision of their taxonomy. Along with 16S sequences of 161 fresh samples, sequences of a fragment of the nuclear-encoded Rag-1 gene for 97 of these samples, a multi-gene data set of selected samples, and a comprehensive analysis of available advertisement call recordings, the new data suggest a novel taxonomic hypothesis: (1) The name G. plicifer applies to a highland clade of populations from the southern Central East, previously referred to as Gephyromantis sp. Ca21, with G. sculpturatus as a junior synonym. (2) The name G. luteus applies to a widespread clade distributed along most of Madagascar’s eastern rainforest band, and more specifically, is assigned to a subclade occurring mostly in coastal regions of the northern Central East and North East. (3) Large-sized specimens from Ranomafana (southern Central East) and Andohahela (South East) previously considered to belong to G. plicifer in fact represent a hitherto undescribed species, which we here formally name as Gephyromantis pedronoi sp. nov. The three species are distinguished by very high genetic distances (over 8 % in the 16S gene), an absence of haplotype sharing in Rag-1, as well as morphological and bioacoustic characteristics. Moreover, several infraspecific clades with 16S divergences > 4 % may represent distinct species, especially within the widespread G. luteus, but cannot be unambiguously delimited by available data. We suggest dedicated sampling at contact zones and more extensive bioacoustic study of genotyped call vouchers to clarify their taxonomic status.

 Three adult males of Gephyromantis pedronoi sp. nov. (clade C) from Ranomafana in life, in dorsolateral and ventral views.
 a-d. photographed in 1996; e-f. photographed in 2003.
The individuals cannot be reliably assigned to preserved voucher specimens, but a-d might correspond to ZFMK 62305-62306.

Gephyromantis pedronoi sp. nov.

Identity. This species has previously been assigned to Gephyromantis plicifer in various publications (e.g., Vences & Glaw 2001, Vences et al. 2006, Glaw & Vences 2007), based on the analysis of Vences & Glaw (2001) who relied on morphological similarities with the lectotype of Rana plicifera Boulenger, 1882 (distinct and large femoral glands of type 2), but also already remarked the smaller body size of the plicifer lectotype. It corresponds to the genetic clade C and is here recognised as distinct at the species level from G. plicifer (clade B).

Diagnosis. A species of Gephyromantis assigned to the G. luteus complex in the subgenus Duboimantis on the basis of presence of intercalary elements between ultimate and penultimate phalanges of fingers and toes present (assessed by external examination), absence of nuptial pads, a single patch of well-delimited femoral glands of type 2 in males (no rudiments in females), paired blackish subgular vocal sacs in males, fairly smooth skin, moderately large body size, outer metatarsalia separated by webbing, presence of inner and outer dorsolateral ridges, and molecular phylogenetic affinities. Within the G. luteus complex, the species can be identified by a unique combination of the following characters: moderately large body size (adult males >43 mm and often up to 44-46 mm, vs. up to 43 mm but often <40 mm in G. luteus and G. plicifer), distinct and relatively large femoral glands in males (vs. small, often indistinct to unrecognisable externally in G. luteus), and emission of advertisement calls in irregular series at low call repetition rate of <100 calls per minute (vs. fast, regular series of at least 140 calls per minute in G. luteus and G. plicifer), and distinct downward frequency modulation (vs. upward frequency modulation in G. luteus and G. plicifer). 

Etymology. The name is a patronym dedicated to Miguel Pedrono in recognition of his substantial contributions to our understanding of the biology of Madagascar’s tortoises, in particular the Angonoka, Astrochelys yniphora, and his immense efforts in tortoise conservation (e.g. Pedrono 2008, Pedrono & Clausen 2018). 

Distribution. The species is reliably known from DNA barcoded specimens from Ranomafana National Park at elevations of about 950 m a. s.l., and Andohahela National Park, from a site between Isaka and Eminiminy at around 600 m a. s.l. Additional specimens probably belonging to this species from the Anosy Chain (Ambana-Soavala, Camp IV, Camp V) reported above under additional material would originate from a rather wide elevational range, based on the elevational information of campsites reported by Rakotoarison et al. (2017b), i. e., from almost sea level (Ambana) over 550 m (Camp 4) to 1050 m a. s.l. (Camp V).

Miguel Vences, Jörn Köhler, Franco Andreone, Ann-Kristin Craul, Angelica Crottini, Louis du Preez, Michaela Preick, Lois Rancilhac, Mark-Oliver Rödel, Mark D. Scherz, Jeffrey W. Streicher, Michael Hofreiter and Frank Glaw. 2021. Target-enriched DNA Sequencing Clarifies the Identity of Name-bearing Types of the Gephyromantis plicifer complex and reveals A New Species of Mantellid Frog from Madagascar (Amphibia, Anura). Spixiana. 44(2); 175-202.

 https://pfeil-verlag.de/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SPX_44-2_11_VE.pdf

  Researchgate.net/publication/357328981_the_identity_of_name-bearing_types_of_the_Gephyromantis_plicifer_complex

 twitter.com/MarkScherz/status/1480307863734132739

[Herpetology • 2016] Dixonius minhlei • First Molecular Verification of Dixonius vietnamensis Das, 2004 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) with the Description of A New Species from Vinh Cuu Nature Reserve, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam

Dixonius minhlei 

 Ziegler,  Botov, Nguyen, Bauer, Brennan, Ngo & Nguyen, 2016

 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4136.3.7

Abstract

Based on near-topotypic specimens of Dixonius vietnamensis from Khanh Hoa Province in southern Vietnam genetic analyses showed that the recently described D. taoi is sister to D. vietnamensis and several separate forms exist which previously have been misidentified as D. vietnamensis and D. siamensis. The Dixonius population from Vinh Cuu Nature Reserve, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam, represents an undescribed species. Dixonius minhlei sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners based on the following diagnostic characters: small size (up to 47.5 mm SVL); 7–9 supralabials; 14–15 rows of keeled tubercles on dorsum; 20–23 ventral scale rows; 7 or 8 precloacal pores in males; a canthal stripe running from rostrum through the eye and terminating at back of head; lateral second pair of postmentals maximum one quarter the size of first pair; dorsum olive gray with more or less discernible brownish olive blotches. This is the sixth species of Dixonius known to occur in Vietnam.

Keywords: Reptilia, Dixonius vietnamensis, Dixonius minhlei sp. nov., Vietnam, morphology, molecular phylogeny, taxonomy

Paratypes of Dixonius minhlei sp. nov. from Vinh Cuu, Dong Nai Province, in life:
 ZFMK 97745 (top), and VNMN R.2016.1 (bottom).

 Photos: T. T. Nguyen. 

 Dixonius minhlei sp. nov. 

Diagnosis. A small gecko with up to 47.5 mm SVL; 7–9 supralabials; 14–15 rows of keeled tubercles on dorsum; 20–23 ventral scale rows; 7 or 8 precloacal pores in males; a canthal stripe running from rostrum through the eye and terminating at back of head; lateral second pair of postmentals maximum one quarter the size of first pair; dorsum olive gray with more or less discernible brownish olive blotches.

Etymology. The new species is named after our friend and colleague Dr. Minh D. Le from the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Hanoi University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, for his continuous and significant contributions towards a better understanding of the diversity and phylogenetic relationships of species from Vietnam and surrounding countries.

Distribution. Dixonius minhlei sp. nov. currently is only known from the type locality (Fig. 7).

Natural history. The type series of Dixonius minhlei sp. nov. was collected at night, between 19:00 and 23:00, on the ground of the evergreen forest (Fig. 8). Further reptile species observed at the type locality were Acanthosaura lepidogaster, Calotes emma, and Cyrtodactylus cattienensis.

Thomas Ziegler, Andreas Botov, Tao T. Nguyen, Aaron M. Bauer, Ian G. Brennan, Hanh T. Ngo & Truong Q. Nguyen. 2016. First Molecular Verification of Dixonius vietnamensis Das, 2004 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) with the Description of A New Species from Vinh Cuu Nature Reserve, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam. Zootaxa. 4136(3); 553–566. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4136.3.7

 Researchgate.net/publication/304994112_a_new_species_of Dixonius_from_Vinh_Cuu_Nature_Reserve_Dong_Nai_Vietnam 

[Botany • 2022] Ridsdalea philippinensis (Rubiaceae: Gardenieae) • A New Philippine Species from Karst Vegetation in Palawan

Ridsdalea philippinensis R.Bustam. & Pelser.,   

in Bustamante & Pelser, 2022.

DOI: 10.3767/blumea.2022.67.01.04

 facebook.com/phtaxa

Abstract 

Ridsdalea philippinensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from the karst forest in El Nido (Palawan, Philippines), is described and illustrated. It is unique among Malesian Ridsdalea species in having a corolla tube that is distinctly inflated at the apex, a character state also displayed by R. sootepensis and R. thailandica from Laos and Thailand. Amongst others, R. philippinensis, however, differs from both of these species in having smaller flowers and anthers that do not emerge from the corolla tube. An updated key for Philippine Ridsdalea is also presented.

Keywords: El Nido-Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area; Gardenieae; Malesia; Philippines; Ridsdalea; Rubiaceae

a– c, e. Ridsdalea philippinensis R.Bustam. & Pelser.
a. Flower; b. longitudinal section of flower; c. branching of twig; e. flower showing inflated apex of corolla tube.
— d, f. Ridsdalea merrillii (Elmer) J.T.Pereira. d. Flowering twig; f. flower showing the lack of an inflated apex of the corolla tube.

— Photos by: a– c, e: W. Cabanillas & L.M. Camangeg; d, f: P.B. Pelser & J.F. Barcelona.

Ridsdalea philippinensis R.Bustam. & Pelser.
a. Flowering twig; b. leaf, showing appearance of the adaxial (Ad) and abaxial (Ab) surface; c. stipule, showing appearance of the adaxial (Ad) and abaxial (Ab) surface; d. fruit; e. cross section of flower; f. indumentum at the apical part of the basal section (i.e., non-inflated part) of the corolla tube; g. anther; h. cross section of fruit.

— Drawing by J. Mansibang.

Ridsdalea philippinensis R.Bustam. & Pelser, sp. nov. 

 A species that is unique among all currently described species of Ridsdalea in displaying a combination of flowers with a corolla tube that is distinctly inflated at its apex and anthers that do not emerge from it. 

Distribution — Ridsdalea philippinensis is endemic to El Nido, Palawan (Philippines). 

Habitat & Ecology — Tower karst formation. Altitude: c. 150 m. Flowering: June.

 

 Bustamante, R.A.A. and Pelser, P.B. 2022. A New Philippine Species of Ridsdalea (Rubiaceae, Ixoroideae) from Karst Vegetation in Palawan.  Blumea - Biodiversity, Evolution and Biogeography of Plants. DOI: 10.3767/blumea.2022.67.01.04

 facebook.com/phtaxa/posts/4497107530418776

 

  

[Botany • 2020] Utricularia sainthomia (Lentibulariaceae) • A New Remarkable Carnivorous Species from the Lateritic Plateau of northern Kerala, India

Utricularia sainthomia P.Biju, Josekutty, Janarth. & Augustine, 

in Biju, Josekutty, Janarthanam & Jomy, 2020. 

DOI: 10.22244/rheedea.2020.30.02.02 

  facebook.com/335371220741671 

Abstract

A new species of Lentibulariaceae, Utricularia sainthomia collected from the lateritic plateau of northern Kerala, India is described and illustrated. It is compared with similar species, U. malabarica Janarth. & A.N.Henry and U. lazulina P.Taylor based on vegetative, floral and seed morphology. A key to the violet flowered species in India are provided.

Keywords: New species, Utricularia, Utricularia sect. Oligocista.

Utricularia sainthomia P.Biju, Josekutty, Janarth. & Augustine:
 a. Habit; b. Habitat; c. Rhizoids; d. Stamens; e. Pistil; f. Trap different views

 (from Biju & Jomy 1008; photos by P. Biju).

Utricularia sainthomia P.Biju, Josekutty, Janarth. & Augustine, sp. nov.

 This new species is morphologically similar to U. malabarica Janarth. & A.N.Henry and U. lazulina P.Taylor in its 3- nerved leaves, basifixed bracts, shorter peduncles, recurved fruiting pedicels (absent in U. lazulina), papillate calyx lobes and bigibbous corolla but differs in having large oblate traps (1.5–2.5 mm) with a lateral mouth, traps confined to the expanded portion of the leaves, 1.5–2.5 mm long nonglandular trap appendages, terete brownish green peduncles, papillate scales, bracts and bracteoles, broad obovate upper lip of corolla, deep violet lower lip of corolla, shallowly trilobed upper lobe of stigma, globular capsules, terminal hilum, elongated overlapping testa cells with raised anticlinal boundaries and periclinal walls transversely striated.

Etymology: The species is named after the educational institution Saint Thomas College, Pala, Kerala, India, where one of the authors pursuing research work. 

Distribution: Endemic to the lateritic plateau in Kerala, India.

Biju P., Josekutty E.J., Janarthanam M.K. and A. Jomy. 2020. Utricularia sainthomia (Lentibulariaceae), A New Remarkable Carnivorous Species from the Lateritic Plateau of northern Kerala, India. Rheedea: Journal of Indian Association for Angiosperm Taxonomy. DOI: 10.22244/rheedea.2020.30.02.02 rheedea.in/journal/IEmyDef7

  facebook.com/335371220741671/photos/595433518068772

[Botany • 2018] Ridsdalea alba (Rubiaceae: Gardenieae) • A New Species from southern Thailand

Ridsdalea alba K.Khamm., 

in Khammongkol, Chamchumroon, Poopath, et al., 2018. 

พุดหอมเศวต  ||  DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.1.5

  Researchgate.net/publication/327058662 

Abstract 
Ridsdalea alba, a new species of Gardenieae from southern Thailand, is described and illustrated. It differs from R. sootepensis in having narrowly elliptic-oblong to obovate leaf blades that are glossy dark green above, thickly leathery in texture, with rounded to acute leaf apices, and revolute leaf margins. Moreover, the corolla tube is without purple speckles inside.

Keywords: Eudicots, Ridsdalea, Rothmannia, Gardenieae, Rubiaceae, new species, Thailand

 

Ridsdalea alba K. Khammongkol.
A. Habit and habitat. B. Foliage showing trifoliate leaf clusters. C. Abaxial leaf surfaces. D. and E. Inflorescences. F. Salverform corolla. G. Fruit. H. Cross-section of a fruit and seeds.

 Ridsdalea alba K. Khammongkol.
 A. Flowering branch. B. Node with stipule. C. Flower, with salverform corolla. D. Flower bud. E. Flower with corolla tube slit open. F. Inferior ovary. G. Dorsal, ventral and lateral views of anther. H. Numerous ovules in 2 rows. I. Bracts. J. Fruiting branch. K. Transverse section of a fruit. L. Fruit.

Drawn by Ms. Benjaluk Chuencharoen

 (all based on K. Khammongkol et al. KK151).

Ridsdalea alba K. Khammongkol sp. nov. 

This species is superficially similar to Ridsdalea sootepensis but differs in that its leaf blades are narrowly elliptic-oblong to obovate, glossy dark green above, thickly leathery, rounded to acute leaf apices, and revolute leaf margins. The corolla tube is without purple speckles inside. In contrast, R. sootepensis has leaf blades that are lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate, matt green above, leathery, acute to acuminate leaf apices, and plane margins. The corolla tube of R. sootepensis is with purple speckles inside.

Etymology:—In Latin, “alba” means white; the specific epithet refers to the white corolla.

 Common name:—Phut Hom Sawate - พุดหอมเศวต (Thai). 

Kwanjai Khammongkol, Voradol Chamchumroon, Manop Poopath, Sarunya Vajrodaya and Sarawood Sungkaew. 2018. Ridsdalea alba (Rubiaceae), A New Species from southern Thailand. Phytotaxa. 365(1); 96–100. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.1.5

  Researchgate.net/publication/327058662_Ridsdalea_alba_a_new_species_from_southern_Thailand

[Herpetology • 2022] Cyrtodactylus menglianensis • A New Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from southwestern Yunnan, China

Cyrtodactylus menglianensis 

 Liu & Rao, 2022

Menglian Bent-toed Gecko | 孟连裸趾虎  ||  DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1084.72868

Abstract

A new species of the Cyrtodactylus chauquangensis species group is described based on four specimens collected from the karst formations of Menglian County, Puer City, Yunnan Province, China. The new species can be separated from all other congeners by having a unique combination of morphological characters: a medium-sized body; ventrolateral folds present with interspersed small tubercles; seven precloacal pores in a continuous series in males, absent in females; enlarged femoral scales and femoral pores absent; two postcloacal tubercles on each side; and one or two rows of enlarged subcaudals. Genetically, the new species most closely related to C. wayakonei and the uncorrected sequence divergences of the ND2 gene and its flanking tRNAs between the new species and investigated congeners range from 7.2% to 18.4%.

Keywords: Bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus chauquangensis group, Menglian County, taxonomy

Holotype (KIZ20210713) of Cyrtodactylus menglianensis sp. nov. in life
A dorsal view of whole body B lateral view of whole body C ventral view of whole body
D dorsal view of head E lateral view of head F ventral view of head.

Paratypes of Cyrtodactylus menglianensis sp. nov. in life
A female paratype (KIZ20210714) B male paratype (KIZ20210715) C female paratype (KIZ20210716).

 Cyrtodactylus menglianensis sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Medium body size (SVL 67.7–78.1 mm in adults); ventrolateral folds present with interspersed small tubercles; seven precloacal pores in a continuous series in males, absent in females; femoral scales not enlarged; femoral pores absent; two postcloacal tubercles on each side; 17–22 lamellae under finger IV, 21–23 lamellae under toe IV; one or two rows of subcaudals enlarged; dark postocular streak and nuchal loop absent; six or seven dark irregular dorsal bands between limb insertions, most bands discontinuous.

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to Menglian County, the locality where the new species was found. We propose “Menglian Bent-toed Gecko” for the common English name and “孟连裸趾虎” (Mèng Lián Luǒ Zhǐ Hǔ) for the common Chinese name of the new species.

Habitat of Cyrtodactylus menglianensis sp. nov. at the type locality
A distant view B close view C, D lamps on the limestone cliffs.

Natural history: All specimens were collected at night on large stones or cliffs of the karst formations in a park. The surrounding habitats was karst forest, there is a plank road and a river nearby.

    

 Shuo Liu and Dingqi Rao. 2022. A New Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from southwestern Yunnan, China. ZooKeys. 1084: 83-100. DOI:  10.3897/zookeys.1084.72868

    

[Herpetology • 2022] Conraua kamancamarai • A New Slippery Frog (Anura: Conrauidae: Conraua Nieden, 1908) from the Fouta Djallon Highlands, west-central Guine

Conraua kamancamarai

Neira-Salamea, Doumbia, Hillers, Sandberger-Loua, Kouamé, Brede, Schäfer, Blackburn, Barej & Rödel, 2022

‘Kaman Camara’s Slippery Frog’ | ‘la grenouille glissante de Kaman Camara’ 

|| ‘Tôti bhowroundi de Kaman Camara’ 

DOI: 10.3897/zse.98.76692

Abstract

We describe a new species of the genus Conraua from the Fouta Djallon Highlands in Guinea. The species is recognised as distinct from nominotypical C. alleni, based on morphological evidence and is supported by a recent species delimitation analysis, based on DNA sequence data. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by the unique combination of the following characters: medium body size, robust limbs, only one instead of two palmar tubercles, the first finger webbed to below the first subarticular tubercle, presence of a lateral line system, indistinct tympanum, two subarticular tubercles on fingers III and IV, venter in adults white with dark brown spots or dark brown with grey or whitish spots. The new species differs from all congeners by more than 6% in the DNA sequence of mitochondrial ribosomal 16S. We discuss isolation in Pliocene and Pleistocene forest refugia as a potential driver of speciation in the C. alleni complex. We also emphasise the importance of conserving the remaining forest fragments in the Fouta Djallon Region for the preservation of both its unique biodiversity and its valuable water sources for local people.

Key Words: Anura, conservation, forest refugia, Upper Guinea forest zone, West Africa

Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov., female holotype (ZMB 78432) in life.

Colouration of life Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov. from the Fouta Djallon and surrounding region, Guinea, illustrating variation in colour pattern and skin texture.
a. From Dubreka, River Bindinbandan (10°22'21.9"N, 13°9'16.8"W, 199 m a.s.l.); b. From Dalaba, Chute de Ditinn; c. From Hörè Binti; d. From Dubreka, River Bindinbandan (10°22'21.9"N, 13°9'16.8"W, 199 m a.s.l.); e. From Dalaba, Chute de Ditinn; f. From Télimélé, locality Kourakoto, river Didounpouriguè (10°55'30.4"N, 13°47'39.4"W, 238 m a.s.l.); frogs in lower row in typical calling position, sitting in shallow water; specimens either not collected or not assignable to a voucher specimen, whereas the frogs from Hörè Binti and Chute de Ditinn can be assigned to Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov. without doubt; the other frogs may represent an undescribed Conraua.

Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov.

  

Diagnosis: The new species resembles other members of the genus Conraua Nieden, 1908. Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov. is an aquatic frog with the following traits: smooth dorsal skin, covered with scattered small, rounded warts on back and longitudinal ridges on dorsal part of hind legs; venter skin smooth; three odontoid projections on lower jaw, one at symphysis and one to each side on dentary; vocal sacs absent; fully webbed feet, i.e. to end of last phalanx of toe. Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov. is closely related to a clade including C. alleni sensu stricto, C. derooi and C. sagyimase (see Blackburn et al. 2020). Genetic distances between the new species and all other Conraua species were higher than 6% in the examined part of the 16S gene.

Etymology: This species is dedicated to Kaman Camara, our long-term field assistant and friend, who started working with MOR in 2002 on a survey to the Simandou Range that was organised by Conservation International (Rödel and Bangoura 2004). From 2007 until his recent death, Kaman was a member of our Guinean team, investigating the amphibians of the Nimba Mountains and other Guinean areas. Kaman had outstanding skills in detecting and catching frogs, and, more importantly, an unswerving positive attitude. A day could be completely exhausting and frustrating, but with a simple joke from Kaman all was good again! Kaman was born and lived in a remote village at the western foothills of the Simandou Range. He never received any formal education. Still, he repeatedly rejected other better paying job offers from mining companies, preferring instead to work with his frog team whenever it was possible. Kaman died in June 2020 after a short severe disease. These frogs shall be a permanent memory to an outstanding person! 

We suggest ‘Kaman Camara’s Slippery Frog’ as the English common name, ‘la grenouille glissante de Kaman Camara’ in French and in the local language Poular: ‘Tôti bhowroundi de Kaman Camara’.

 The type locality of Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov. near Konkouré Fetto, Fouta Djallon, Guinea (10°20'28.21"N, 12°10'16.82"W, 650 m a.s.l.). The frogs live in clear, fast flowing streams, with riverine forest. The surroundings are heavily degraded by agriculture, cattle grazing and charcoal production (inset figure).

The Fouta Djallon, Guinea and habitats of Conraua kamancamarai sp. nov. Hörè Binti landscape (upper photo) and typical river habitats.  

 Karla Neira-Salamea, Joseph Doumbia, Annika Hillers, Laura Sandberger-Loua, N’Goran G. Kouamé, Christian Brede, Marvin Schäfer, David C. Blackburn, Michael F. Barej and Mark-Oliver Rödel. 2022. A New Slippery Frog (Amphibia, Conrauidae, Conraua Nieden, 1908) from the Fouta Djallon Highlands, west-central Guinea. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 98(1): 23-42. DOI: 10.3897/zse.98.76692

Resumé: Nous décrivons une nouvelle espèce du genre Conraua des hauts plateaux du Fouta Djallon en Guinée. L'espèce est reconnue comme distincte du C. alleni nominotypique, sur la base de preuves morphologiques et est soutenue par une analyse récente de délimitation des espèces, basée sur des données de séquence d'ADN. La nouvelle espèce se distingue de ses congénères par la combinaison unique des caractères suivants: taille moyenne du corps, membres robustes, un seul tubercule palmaire au lieu de deux, premier doigt palmaire jusqu'en dessous du premier tubercule subarticulaire, présence d'un système de lignes latérales, tympan indistinct, deux tubercules subarticulaires sur les doigts III et IV, ventre blanc avec des taches brun foncé ou brun foncé avec des taches gris ou blanchâtre chez les adultes. La nouvelle espèce diffère de ses congénères avec plus de 6% de sa séquence d'ADN du ribosome mitochondrial 16S. Nous discutons de l'isolement dans les refuges forestiers du Pliocène et du Pléistocène comme facteur potentiel de spéciation dans le complexe C. alleni. Nous soulignons également l'importance de conserver les fragments de forêt restants dans la région du Fouta Djallon pour préserver à la fois sa biodiversité unique et ses sources d'eau précieuses pour les populations locales.