[Mollusca • 2022] Burmochlamys fasciola, B. albida, B. versicolor, ... • Uncovering local Endemism from southeastern Myanmar: Description of the New Karst-associated Terrestrial Snail Genus Burmochlamys (Eupulmonata: Helicarionidae)

 

Burmochlamys Pholyotha & Panha,
A Burmochlamys fasciola sp. nov. paratype showing left and right lateral views;  
D B. albida sp. nov. paratype; E B. moulmeinica sp. nov. paratype;
F B. versicolor sp. nov. paratype; G B. whitteni sp. nov. paratype 

in Pholyotha, Sutcharit, Lin et Panha, 2022.   

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1110.82461 

Abstract

Salween River basin’s karst ecosystems in southeastern Myanmar remain largely unexplored and are likely to harbour a high terrestrial snail diversity that are often associated with high levels of snail endemism. Here, an outstanding group of new karst-associated terrestrial snails, Burmochlamys gen. nov., are discovered. A study of the comparative morphological and anatomical data reveals that the reproductive tract and radula of this new genus are closely related to the helicarionid genus Sophina Benson, 1859 but shell morphology (shape, size, and sculpture) and mantle extensions are distinct from the latter genus. Burmochlamys gen. nov. now consists of four known nominal species, B. cassidula comb. nov., B. cauisa comb. nov., B. perpaula comb. nov., and B. poongee comb. nov., and five new species; B. albida sp. nov., B. fasciola sp. nov., B. moulmeinica sp. nov., B. versicolor sp. nov., and B. whitteni sp. nov. The highlight is that the members of the new genus show site-specific endemism, being restricted to karstic habitat islands of the Salween River basin. In addition, the discovery supports that the unique and complex structure of Salween River basin’s karst ecosystems are habitats in which the terrestrial malacofauna have speciated and become endemic.

Keywords: Diversity, endemic, Indochina, land snail, limestone, Salween River basin, taxonomy

Family Helicarionidae Bourguignat, 1877

Subfamily Durgellinae Godwin-Austen, 1888

Living snails of Burmochlamys species
A Burmochlamys fasciola sp. nov. paratype CUMZ 14214 showing left and right lateral views B B. cassidula specimen CUMZ 14209
C B. poongee specimen CUMZ 14210 D B. albida sp. nov. paratype CUMZ 14212
E B. moulmeinica sp. nov. paratype CUMZ 14217 F B. versicolor sp. nov. paratype CUMZ 14219 G B. whitteni sp. nov. paratype CUMZ 14222.

Genus Burmochlamys Pholyotha & Panha, gen. nov.

 

Type species: Burmochlamys fasciola sp. nov., by original designation.

Etymology: The name combines Burmo in reference to Burma, the historical name of Myanmar, and the Greek word chlamys meaning mantle or cloak in reference to land snail with well-developed mantle extensions. Therefore, the generic name means the Burmese land snail with the well-developed mantle extensions. The gender of the new generic name is feminine.

Diagnosis: Shell subglobose to globose, small size, little high spire, and sculptured with spiral furrows and undulating radial lines. Snail with five well-developed mantle extensions; caudal horn raised. Genitalia with penial retractor muscle attached at tip of epiphallic caecum; gametolytic organ with rather short to moderate cylindrical duct and bulbous sac; well-developed dart apparatus; flagellum absent. Radula with large monocuspid central tooth and attached by two smaller teeth; laterals and marginals undifferentiated, large monocuspid, and at base of each tooth on outer side attached by a smaller tooth.

B. cassidula comb. nov., B. cauisa comb. nov., 

B. perpaula comb. nov., and B. poongee comb. nov., 

and five new species; B. albida sp. nov., B. fasciola sp. nov., 

B. moulmeinica sp. nov., B. versicolor sp. nov., and B. whitteni sp. nov.

A adult of Burmochlamys moulmeinica sp. nov. while climbing slowly on the karst wall after raining at Lun Nya Pagoda B mating pairs of B. versicolor sp. nov. on the karst wall at Bayin Nyi Cave
C B. versicolor sp. nov. eaten by the carnivorous snail Carinartemis sp. on the karst wall at Bayin Nyi Cave D B. cassidula eaten by the carnivorous snail Haploptychius sp. on the karst wall at Kaw Gon Cave. 

 Arthit Pholyotha, Chirasak Sutcharit, Aung Lin and Somsak Panha. 2022. Uncovering local Endemism from southeastern Myanmar: Description of the New Karst-associated Terrestrial Snail Genus Burmochlamys (Eupulmonata, Helicarionidae).  ZooKeys. 1110: 1-37. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1110.82461 

[Mollusca • 2026] Sundadontina panhai • Discover before they Disappear: A New freshwater mussel Species in the Genus Sundadontina (Unionidae: Gonideinae: Pseudodontini) from the remote headwaters of the Chi River, Mekong Basin, northeastern Thailand

 

Sundadontina panhai  Nahok, C. Tumpeesuwan & S. Tumpeesuwan, 

in Nahok, Chanlabut, Tanmuangpak, Bolotov, Vikhrev, C Tumpeesuwan et S Tumpeesuwan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.37828/em.2026.99.1 

facebook.com/BenchawanNAHOK 

Abstract

The Mekong River basin is a globally recognized freshwater biodiversity hotspot.  The most species-rich radiation of freshwater mussels in this basin belongs to the tribe Pseudodontini. This group contains numerous local endemic species that prefer small river and stream habitats with fast currents, rocky or gravel substrates, and clean water. Here, we describe Sundadontina panhai Nahok, C. Tumpeesuwan & S. Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov., a new species within this unique tribe. This species was discovered in remote tributaries of the Upper Chi River drainage, northeastern Thailand. Its taxonomic status was evaluated using an integrative approach, combining an analysis of shell morphology and mtDNA phylogeny (based on COI and 16S rRNA gene sequences). The new species differs from its congeners by a combination of unique conchological characteristics, including an elongate-ovate shell without a prominent wing, an unprojected umbo, a yellowish to dark brown periostracum, and a clearly protruding, triangular pseudocardinal tooth. All Sundadontina species are phylogenetically well-separated from each other in the mtDNA phylogeny, exhibiting a corrected COI p-distance of 2.5–16.1%. Our findings highlight that remote tributaries of the Mekong River still house undescribed endemic lineages of freshwater mussels, which are on the brink of extinction due to habitat degradation, rapid deforestation, river damming, irrigation and drainage projects, and other anthropogenic activities.

Key words Disjunct distribution, endemic freshwater mussel, habitat specialist, lotic ecosystem, phylogeny

Maps showing the geographic distribution of the genus Sundadontina.
 (A) General distribution of Sundadontina species (circles) and the type locality of the new species (red star) across mainland Southeast Asia; areas outlined by a dashed line indicate historical records from vague localities that could not be precisely georeferenced.
(B) Detailed sampling localities of Sundadontina panhai sp. nov. in the headwaters of the Chi River, northeastern Thailand, highlighting the type locality (red star) and additional collection sites (red circles). Maps were generated using QGIS v. 3.44 with the map base from HydroSHEDS (Lehner and Grill, 2013). (Maps: U. Chanlabut).

Family Unionidae Rafinesque, 1820

Subfamily Gonideinae Ortmann, 1916

Tribe Pseudodontini Frierson, 1927

Subtribe Pseudodontina Frierson, 1927 

(type genus: Pseudodon Gould, 1844; by original designation).

Genus Sundadontina Bolotov et al., 2020 

(type species: Anodonta cumingii Lea, 1851; by original designation)

Holotype of Sundadontina panhai sp. nov. (ZCPRU-0051).
External view of (A) right valve and (B) left valve. Internal view of (C) left valve and (D) right valve. (E) dorsal view of the shell; (F) details of the pseudocardinal teeth, showing the left valve on the left-hand side and the right valve on the right-hand side. (Photos: B. Nahok)

 Sundadontina panhai Nahok, C. Tumpeesuwan & S. Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The shell is elongate-ovate, rather thick. The umbo is not prominent, the posterior margin is somewhat biangular, without a prominent wing. The periostracum is yellowish to dark brown, sometimes with a copper-colored tint on the posterior margin; the nacre is whitish and shining. The pseudocardinal tooth is clearly protruding and triangular. The anterior adductor muscle scar is elliptical and distinctly deep, whereas the posterior adductor muscle scar is rounded and shallower. 

Etymology. The specific epithet 'panhai' is named in honor of Professor Dr. Somsak Panha, the esteemed mentor of the sixth and last authors, recognizing his pioneering leadership in the taxonomic research of land snails and freshwater bivalves in Thailand. 

Benchawan Nahok, Utain Chanlabut, Kitti Tanmuangpak, Ivan N. Bolotov, Ilya V. Vikhrev, Chanidaporn Tumpeesuwan, Sakboworn Tumpeesuwan. 2026. Discover before they Disappear: A New freshwater mussel Species in the Genus Sundadontina (Unionidae: Gonideinae: Pseudodontini) from the remote headwaters of the Chi River, Mekong Basin, northeastern Thailand. Ecologica Montenegrina. 99; 1-18. DOI: doi.org/10.37828/em.2026.99.1

 facebook.com/BenchawanNAHOK/posts/27202569409424626

[Cnidaria • 2026] Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum • A New Species of Hemicorallium (Anthozoa: Octocorallia: Coralliidae), along with a revised identification key to species of the genus

Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum

Koido, 2026 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1277.184620 

 

Abstract

A new precious coral species, Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum sp. nov. (Scleralcyonacea, Coralliidae), retrieved from a depth of 550 m in Kochi Prefecture, Japan, is described, and an updated identification key for the genus Hemicorallium is provided. The new species is confirmed as belonging to the genus Hemicorallium based on the presence of nonretractile but contractile autozooids with an ovate-cylindrical shape and sclerites comprising elongated rods, 6–8-radiates and double clubs, with elongated rods present exclusively in the tentacles. Moreover, the species is distinct from all its congeners in that it has orange coenenchyme and a pink axis, with autozooids distributed only on the front side of the branch, forming clusters at the branch tips. These morphological features differ from those of all previously described species of Hemicorallium, and molecular analysis of mitochondrial sequences (16S, ND1, ND2, ND3, ND6, COI, MSH, and IGR1) further corroborates the validity of this new species. This is the first report of Hemicorallium off the coast of Kochi Prefecture, Japan.

Key words: Cnidaria, deep-sea corals, precious coral, Scleralcyonacea, Western Pacific

 

Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum sp. nov. (Holotype: KBF-OA-00436).
 A. ‘‘Front’’ and ‘‘back’’ of colony; B. Branch, showing autozooid (AZ); C. Exposed axis with the coenenchyme removed; D, E. Surface detail of branch, showing autozooid (AZ), siphonozooid (SZ), burrows (Bu), cluster of autozooids (CL), warts on coenenchyme surface (W), and commensal polychaete (Po).

 Scale bars: 50 mm (A); 10 mm (B–E).

Class Octocorallia Haeckel, 1866

Order Scleralcyonacea McFadden, van Ofwegen & Quattrini, 2022

Family Coralliidae Lamouroux, 1812

Genus Hemicorallium Gray, 1867

Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum sp. nov. 

 New Japanese name. Kinmokusei-mizo-sango.

Diagnosis. The colony branches in one plane, and anastomoses are present only where broken branches come into contact with other branches. Autozooids are contracted but not retracted, and they are distributed only on one side of the colony. Spacing is almost absent on the twigs, and clusters are formed at the tips. The axis has no pits beneath the autozooids and is pale pink to pink in colour. Sclerites are predominantly radiate, and double clubs are rare. Warty rods are present only in the tentacles.

 

Tatsuki Koido. 2026. A New Species of Hemicorallium (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Coralliidae), along with a revised identification key to species of the genus. ZooKeys. 1277: 339-354.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1277.184620 [20 Apr 2026]

[Chilopoda • 2026] Hainanthereua albilineata • Integrative Morphological and Molecular Evidence reveals A New Genus of scutigerid centipede (Scutigeromorpha: Scutigeridae) from Hainan, China, with implications for its evolution and biogeography

Hainanthereua albilineata   

Li, Edgecombe & Jiang, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/asp.84.e186815

Abstract

Hainanthereua albilineata gen. nov. et sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on specimens from Hainan Province, China. Morphological examination showed that these specimens belong to Thereuoneminae and share certain similarities with Thereuopodina Verhoeff, 1905. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on five genes (nuclear 18S and 28S rRNA, mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA, and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) indicated that the specimens form a distinct and well-supported clade that is sister group to Thereuonema Verhoeff, 1904, so a new genus is accordingly established. Combining the evolutionary history and biogeographic framework of Thereuoneminae, this study revealed the evolutionary significance of Hainanthereua gen. nov. in the context of the Peninsular Indian Plate as a biotic ferry implicated in the origin of East and Southeast Asian lineages. Morphological similarities between Hainanthereua and Thereuopodina are symplesiomorphies of a clade that includes these two genera, Thereuonema and Thereuopoda Verhoeff, 1904.

Key words: Chilopoda, morphology, new species, phylogeny, taxonomic key, Thereuoneminae

Hainanthereua albilineata sp. nov., holotype.
A Habitus, dorsal view, body length 23 mm; B head, dorsal view; C T1, dorsal view; D T2, dorsal view.

Abbreviations: lmd, longitudinal median depression; ap, anterior projection of the (cephalic) transverse suture; To, Tömösváry’s organ; t, (cephalic) transverse suture; ce, compound eye.

 Hainanthereua gen. nov.

Hainanthereua albilineata gen. nov. et sp. nov. 

Habitat of Hainanthereua albilineata sp. nov. (from type locality: Mingfenggu Valley, Jianfengling, Ledong Li Autonomous County, Hainan Province, China).
A Panoramic view of type locality; B woodland on the mountain of type locality shown in A; C interior habitat of the woodland shown in B, the species was collected in relatively dry leaf litter or under stones; D individual of the species found under a stone; E live habitus of the species.

 A–D provided by Mr. Quanyu Ji, E provided by Mr. Jiazhou Lu.

Qing Li, Gregory D. Edgecombe and Chao Jiang. 2026. Integrative Morphological and Molecular Evidence reveals A New Genus of scutigerid centipede from Hainan, China, with implications for its evolution and biogeography (Scutigeromorpha: Scutigeridae). Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny. 84: 447-464. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/asp.84.e186815

 

[Entomology • 2020] Pseudotepuibasis garrisoni • A New Monotypic Genus of Coenagrionidae (Odonata: Zygoptera) from Colombian Amazon

 Pseudotepuibasis garrisoni

Stand-Pérez & Pérez-Gutiérrez, 2020. 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4845.4.7 

Researchgate.net/publication/344100303

Abstract

Pseudotepuibasis gen. nov. is erected for P. garrisoni sp. nov. from the Colombian Amazon (December 2015, Caquetá Department, Solano Municipality, Araracuara, Guacamayo Guard, -72.2497, -0.6308, L. Pérez leg.). Male and female of this new genus are described and illustrated, cerci of male with a ventrobasal spur for which it is considered in the tribe Teinobasini, close to Tepuibasis De Marmels, 2007 and Austrotepuibasis Machado & Lencioni, 2011, by its color pattern and cerci morphology; and close to Leptobasis Selys, 1877 and Mesoleptobasis Sjöstedt, 1918, by its genital ligula. Some notable characters of Pseudotepuibasis are a chitinized spine-like process directed posteriorly on the genital ligula, male cerci with chitinized median tooth, and thoracic color pattern.

Keywords: Odonata, Damselfly, Teinobasini, Guyana shield, tepui, integrative taxonomy, biogeography

 Habitus scan of Pseudotepuibasis garrisoni;
(A) Male holotype; (B) Female allotype. 

 Habitus of female of Pseudotepuibasis garrisoni.

Pseudotepuibasis garrisoni gen. nov. et sp. nov.

 Surroundings of habitat of Pseudotepuibasis garrisoni in rocky plateau with dwarf forest; in the background the Caquetá River.

Miguel Ángel Stand-Pérez and León Andrés Pérez- Gutiérrez. 2020. Pseudotepuibasis gen. nov., A New Monotypic Genus of Coenagrionidae from Colombian Amazon (Odonata: Zygoptera). Zootaxa. 4845(4); 576–584. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4845.4.7 

Researchgate.net/publication/344100303_Pseudotepuibasis_a_new_monotypic_genus_of_Coenagrionidae_from_Colombian_Amazon

[Funga • 2025] Samsoniella scoliopterygis (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) • A New Species of Samsoniella on the herald moth, Scoliopteryx libatrix (Noctuoidea: Erebidae), from caves in the British Isles

Samsoniella scoliopterygis  H.C. Evans & J.P.M. Araújo,

in Evans, Fogg, Buddie, Yeap et Araújo. 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3114/fuse.2025.15.09 

 

Abstract

Samsoniella scoliopterygis (Cordycipitaceae: Hypocreales), pathogenic on the herald moth Scoliopteryx libatrix (Erebidae: Noctuoidea), is described as a new species, based on morphological, ecological and molecular evidence. Infected specimens of this troglophilic moth were recorded from caves, as well as from a copper mine, in southern England (Devon, Norfolk), Northern Ireland (Fermanagh) and the Republic of Ireland (Sligo). The moths were found consistently on the cave floor or rock ledges, rather than on the ceiling amongst the overwintering, healthy moth populations; producing multiple, white or non-pigmented clavae of the cordyceps-like sexual morph. Synnemata of the asexual morph occurred sporadically in situ but were produced consistently in vitro. The ecology and taxonomy are discussed in relation to previous records of entomopathogenic fungi on Scoliopteryx libatrix and other trogloxene moths.

 Keywords: Samsoniella scoliopterygis; ecology; entomopathogenic fungi; new taxon; phylogenetics; systematics 

Samsoniella scoliopterygis sp. nov., holotype IMI 507611.
A, B. Sexual morph on herald moth, (Scoliopteryx libatrix), dried specimen from floor of Boho Caves (Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland), showing the superficial perithecia on stromata emerging from the dorsal surface and orifices (mouth and anus). C, D. Transverse section of an ascostroma showing the superficial, flask-shaped perithecia with a wide, prominent neck region and wall. E. Perithecial tip showing the asci and ascospores oozing from the ostiole. F. Ascus showing prominent cap.

 Scale bars: A, B = 2 mm; C = 100 µm; D = 30 µm; E = 15 µm; F = 5 µm.

Samsoniella scoliopterygis, IMI 507613, on herald moths in situ in Boho Caves, July 2024.
 A. Infected moth on ledge in twilight zone (arrow), ca. 6 m from cave entrance in background. B. Close-up of stromata showing the white, superficial, crowded perithecia. C–E. Infected moths in various positions within the dark zone of the cave system, all with white stromata.

Scale bars: B = 1 mm; C, E = 8 mm; D = 5 mm.

Samsoniella scoliopterygis H.C. Evans & J.P.M. Araújo, sp. nov.

 

H.C. Evans, T. Fogg, A.G. Buddie, Y.T. Yeap and J.P.M. Araújo. 2025. A New Species of Samsoniella (Cordycipitaceae: Hypocreales) on the herald moth, Scoliopteryx libatrix (Erebidae: Noctuoidea), from caves in the British Isles. Fungal Systematics and Evolution. 15(1); 201-224. DOI: doi.org/10.3114/fuse.2025.15.09 (June 2025) 

x.com/joaofungo/status/1885628021882659155

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

Philautus candrageni   

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

  

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5768.1.2   

 Researchgate.net/publication/401693573

Abstract 

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

Amphibia, Conservation, cryptic, endemic, Java, mountain

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

Photos by Hastin Ambar Asti. 

Philautus candrageni sp. nov.

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

.Suggested English common name. Merapi Bush Frog.

Suggested Indonesian common name. Katak-semak Merapi 

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

 Researchgate.net/publication/401693573_Revisiting_the_Taxonomy_of_Javan_Philautus_with_the_Description_of_a_New_Species

[Ichthyology • 2026] Characidium lilloi • A New Species of Characidium (Characiformes: Crenuchidae) from the Northwestern La Plata Basin in Argentina

Characidium lilloi

Terán, Méttola, Alonso, Montes, Méndez-López, Miranda, Aguilera & Mirande, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1643/i2025064  

 x.com/IchsAndHerps

Abstract

Using an integrative approach that combines molecular and morphological analyses, we describe Characidium lilloi, a new species from the Andean portion of the northwestern La Plata basin, specifically from the upper Bermejo and Juramento River basins in Argentina. Specimens were examined for morphometric, meristic, and osteological traits. Genetic analyses based on COI and CYTB sequences were conducted to infer its phylogenetic relationships. The new species is distinguished by a unique combination of morphological characters including an unscaled isthmus, absence of dark stripes or spots on fins, 7–13 regular transversal bars, 14 scales around the caudal peduncle, 35–37 scales in longitudinal series, and highly developed nasal flaps; and molecular evidence. Characidium lilloi, new species, was found to be closely related to C. fasciatum and C. gomesi and represents the first known member of the C2 Clade in the northwestern La Plata basin. Ecologically, C. lilloi, new species, inhabits fast-flowing mountain rivers within the Yungas and Chacoan. This discovery underscores the northwestern La Plata basin as a biogeographic hotspot of endemism and reinforces its importance as a high-priority area for freshwater conservation.

Lateral views of live paratypes of Characidium lilloi.
 CI-FML 8196, 36.8–49.1 mm SL,
Argentina, El Rey National Park, Río Popayán.

Scale bar = 1 cm. 

Characidium lilloi, new species

Etymology.—This species is named in honor of the Argentine naturalist Miguel Lillo (1862–1931), a pioneer who recognized the importance of public investment in science and education. In his commitment to advancing these fields, Lillo donated his personal assets before his death, ensuring the continuity of his legacy through several key institutions. These include the Facultad de Ciencias Naturales e Instituto Miguel Lillo, the Fundación Miguel Lillo, and the Unidad Ejecutora Lillo–CONICET, all of which have played significant roles in the development of science and education in Argentina. The specific name lilloi, thus, not only pays tribute to Lillo’s contributions but also honors the dedication of public workers in Argentina who promote and contribute to the progress of science, education, and technology.   

Guillermo E. Terán, V. Ezequiel Méttola, Felipe Alonso, Martín M. Montes, Alejandro Méndez-López, Guido Miranda, Gastón Aguilera and J. Marcos Mirande. 2026. A New Species of Characidium (Characiformes: Crenuchidae) from the Northwestern La Plata Basin in Argentina. Ichthyology & Herpetology. 114(2):283-298 DOI: doi.org/10.1643/i2025064 [23 June 2026]

  x.com/IchsAndHerps/status/2069532500280381641

Utilizando un enfoque integrador que combina análisis moleculares y morfológicos, se describe Characidium lilloi, una nueva especie proveniente del sector andino del noroeste de la cuenca del Plata, específicamente de las cuencas altas de los ríos Bermejo y Juramento en Argentina. Los ejemplares fueron examinados en cuanto a caracteres morfométricos, merísticos y osteológicos. Se realizaron análisis genéticos basados en las secuencias de los genes mitocondriales COI y CYTB con el fin de inferir sus relaciones filogenéticas. La nueva especie se distingue por una combinación única de caracteres morfológicos incluyendo el istmo sin escamas, ausencia de bandas oscuras o manchas en las aletas, presencia de 7 a 13 barras transversales regulares, 14 escamas alrededor del pedúnculo caudal, 35 a 37 escamas en la serie longitudinal, y lóbulos nasales altamente desarrollados; y evidencia molecular. Characidium lilloi, nueva especie, se encuentra estrechamente relacionada con C. fasciatum y C. gomesi, y representa el primer miembro conocido del Clado C2 en el noroeste de la cuenca del Plata. Desde el punto de vista ecológico, C. lilloi, nueva especie, habita ríos de montaña de corriente rápida, dentro de las ecorregiones de las Yungas y el Chaco. Este hallazgo resalta al noroeste de la cuenca del Plata como un hotspot biogeográfico de endemismos, y refuerza su importancia como una región de alta prioridad para la conservación de ambientes dulceacuícolas.

[Botany • 2025] Dombeya scorpioides (sect. Xeropetalum; Malvaceae) • A New Species from southeastern Madagascar

 

 Dombeya scorpioides Jourdain Fievet & Applequist, 
 

in Jourdain Fievet, Le Prchon, Dubuisson et Applequist, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.704.3.2

Illustration by Ludivine Lougou. 

Abstract

Dombeya scorpioides, a new endemic species of Dombeya (Malvaceae) from southeastern Madagascar, is described. Morphological analysis places this species within Dombeya section Xeropetalum as defined by Arènes. The species is distinguished by its unique biparous cyme, unusually elongated with mostly scorpioid terminal units. It is further differentiated from other species with similar narrow leaves by its hispid ovary with well-developed stellate hairs. Due to its restricted geographic distribution and past and future threats to its habitat, this species should be classified as Endangered according to IUCN Red List Criteria.

conservation status, endemism, scorpioid cyme, Eudicots

Morphological features of Dombeya scorpioides.
 A. Habit. B, C. Flower. D. Flower bud. e. Gynoecium. F. Part of theandroecium. g. Petal. H. Sepal, adaxial face. I. Sepal, abaxial face, with zoom on the hairs on the left.

Drawn from Rabevohitra et al.4121bis (P). Illustration by Ludivine Lougou, January 2025.

Dombeya scorpioides Jourdain Fievet & Applequist, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis:—Dombeya scorpioides Jourdain Fievet & Applequist differs from D. oblongipetala Arènes (1958: 438) in its longerinflorescences with often scorpioid branches, broader petals, a stellate-hispid ovary, and a longer style.

Lucile JOURDAIN FIEVET, Timothee LE PECHON, Jean-Yves DUBUISSON and Wendy APPLEQUIST. 2025. Dombeya scorpioides (Malvaceae: Dombeyoideae), A New Species from southeastern Madagascar.  Phytotaxa. 704(3); 232-238. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.704.3.2 [2025-06-10]

[Entomology • 2026] Oxyporus amigo • A New Species of Oxyporus Fabricius (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Oxyporinae) from western Mexico

 

 Oxyporus amigo

Navarrete-Heredia & Reyes-Hernández, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5837.1.7

Abstract

A new species, Oxyporus amigo, is described from Jalisco and Michoacán, Mexico. The new species is diagnosed and illustrated. Additionally, Oxyporus mexicanus Fauvel, 1865 is recorded for the first time from the state of Aguascalientes, based on specimens collected in Monte Grande, San José de Gracia.

Coleoptera, Oxyporinae, rove beetles, taxonomy, new species, Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt

Habitus of Oxyporus amigo sp. nov.:
 1) holotype, male, dorsal view; 2) paratype, female, dorsal view. Scale bars: 1 mm

Aedeagus of Oxyporus amigo sp. nov. (holotype, male);
3) Parameral view; 4) Left lateral view; 5) Right lateral view; 6) Antiparameral view.

Scale bars: 1 mm.

JOSÉ L. NAVARRETE-HEREDIA and JOSÉ L. REYES-HERNÁNDEZ. 2026. A New Species of Oxyporus Fabricius (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Oxyporinae) from western Mexico and New Record from Aguascalientes for O. mexicanus Fauvel. Zootaxa. 5837(1); 154-160. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5837.1.7 [2026-06-22]

[Botany • 2026] Linaria almadensis (Plantaginaceae: Antirrhineae) • A highly threatened New Toadflax endemic to the Tagus mouth cliffs, opposite Lisbon (Portugal)

Linaria almadensis Farminhão,

in Farminhão, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/23818107.2025.2608732

 

ABSTRACT

A new species of Linaria subsect. Supinae is described from the Tagus mouth cliffs (TMC), located about 2 km south of Lisbon, in the municipality of Almada. The taxonomic treatment, including a key to morphologically allied species, is followed by a report on the vegetation of the TMC. Linaria almadensis, historically identified as L. glaucophylla, L. marginata, L. tristis, L. polygalifolia, L. aeruginea, and L. supina, is endemic to these coastal cliffs, formed during the Pleistocene, where it grows on sandy walls in the vicinity of carbonate rocks. It is associated with a chasmo-chomophytic community including some Portuguese endemics (Silene longicilia) or near-endemics (i.e. Antirrhinum linkianum, Calendula suffruticosa subsp. lusitanica), requiring legal protection under Annex I to the Habitats Directive. Linaria almadensis is most similar to L. tristis subsp. marginata, and L. supina s.l. from which it differs by the narrowly elliptic-oblong to elliptic-oblanceolate leaves, with an obtuse-apiculate apex, and the wider corolla tube in lateral section . Bees of the genus Anthophora are here reported as pollinators of L. almadensis, and evolutionary hypotheses for its origin are discussed. Due to its restricted distribution and pressing threats to its habitat, including invasive species and infrastructural encroachment, L. almadensis is preliminarily red-listed as Critically Endangered. The existence of a narrow endemic on the brink of extinction, one priority habitat at the European level, and a rich geological heritage in the TMC, call for the urgent definition of a new protected area in one of the most densely inhabited areas of Europe.

KEYWORDS: Iberian Peninsula, melittophily, periurban biodiversity, plant conservation, plant taxonomy, rupicolous vegetation, seed morphology, Tropaeolum majus

 Linaria almadensis in situ.
 (A) Habit. (B) Detail of inflorescence in early anthesis; spurs pale yellow. (C) Plant in late anthesis and fruit. (D) Detail of inflorescences in early anthesis; spurs tinged in violet. Taken at Cristo-Rei, 31 March 2021 (A, B, D) and Banática (C), 22 April 2025. Image credits: João Farminhão.

Linaria almadensis Farminhão sp. nov.

Overview of Linaria almadensis.
 A. Habit. B. Branched fertile stem in flower and fruit. C. Fertile stem apex with inflorescence, detail. D. Fertile stem leaf, adaxial surface. E. Fertile stem leaf, abaxial surface. F. Inflorescence axis, detail of indumentum. G. Bract. H. Calyx indumentum, detail. I. Flower, frontal view. J. Flower, lateral view. K. Capsule, pedicel, and axis. L. Capsule, detail of apex. M. Seed, view of convex face. N. Seed, transversal section.

A, G drawn from Arsénio s.n. (LISI053150); 

B – E, H, M, N from Farminhão 395 (COI00112046); F, I – L from Farminhão 371 (COI00112045).

 

João Farminhão. 2026. Linaria almadensis (Plantaginaceae, Antirrhineae): A highly threatened New Toadflax endemic to the Tagus mouth cliffs, opposite Lisbon (Portugal). Botany Letters. 173(2); 251-267. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/23818107.2025.2608732 [19 Jan 2026]

[Herpetology • 2025] Trimeresurus hongheensis • Integrative Taxonomy identifies A New Species of Trimeresurus Lacépède, 1804 (Serpentes: Viperidae) from Yunnan Province, China

 

Trimeresurus hongheensis

Liang, Ding, Wang, Vogel, Shi, Gong, Wu & Chen, 2025 

 

红河竹叶青  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2025.022

Abstract 

The genus Trimeresurus currently contains at least 56 recognized species of venomous terrestrial to arboreal species distributed across South and Southeast Asia. We collected several specimens of the subgenus Viridovipera in Yunnan Province, China in recent years. Based on morphological characters and phylogenetic analysis, we confirm that Trimeresurus yunnanensis is distributed in the west of the Honghe River in Yunnan Province and the Trimeresurus species living along the lower reaches of the Honghe River Basin and adjacent areas is an undescribed taxon. The new species Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from all known congeners by the pairwise genetic divergence in the mitochondrial cytochrome-b (p-distance≥5.0%) and 16S rRNA gene fragment (p-distance≥0.5%), and morphologically by the combination of the following characters: (1) hemipenes short and strongly spinose, with deep bifurcation; (2) a white postocular stripe bordered above and below by red or only a white postocular stripe present in males; postocular stripe white or absent in females; (3) the ventrolateral stripe is red (below) and white (above) in males and white in females; (4) iris brick red or sepia in males; iris yellow or rusty-red in females; (5) VEN 150–165 in males and 157–165 in females; SC 61–76 in males and 56–61 in females; (6) dorsal tail mostly rusty red; (7) 9–12 cephalic scales; (8) 19 or 21 dorsal scale rows at mid-body; (9) first supralabial completely separated from the nasal scale.

Keywords: Mitochondrial DNA, Morphology, Honghe River, Phylogenetics, Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov., Viridovipera

Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. in Yunnan, China, males (Left) and females (Right) in life
 A: Mingjiu, Mengzi (Holotype GXNU251201). B: Mingjiu, Mengzi (GXNU251218). C: Yuanjiang (Paratype GXNU251204). D: Yuanjiang (Paratype GXNU251205). E: Mt. Dawei, Pingbian County, Yunnan (Paratype GXNU251219). F: Yuanjiang (Paratype GXNU251203).

Photos by Li Ding.

Holotype (adult male GXNU251201) of Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. 
A: Dorsal view of head; B: Ventral view of head; C: Lateral view of head; D: Lateral view of middle body; E: Dorsal view of the specimen; F: Ventral view of the specimen.

Photos by Sheng-Chao Shi. Scale bars: 10 mm (A, B, C, D); 3 cm (E, F).

Comparison of head shape and coloration between males and females in Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. Left, dorsal view of head; right, lateral view of head.
A & B: Specimen GXNU251201 (holotype, male); C & D: Specimen GXNU251219 (paratype, male); E & F: Specimen GXNU251205 (paratype, female); G & H: GXNU251218 (female). A & C: Different head shape in males (more elongated skull vs short skull); B & D: Different iris color in males (brick red vs sepia); E & G: Different head shape in females (more elongated skull vs short skull); F & H: Different postocular stripe (present vs absent) and different iris color (yellow vs rusty-red) in females.

Photos by Sheng-Chao Shi.

 Trimeresurus hongheensis sp. nov. 

Etymology: The new species name “hongheensis” refers to its type locality, the area around the Honghe River Basin, which is a boundary of the new species and T. yunnanensis. For common name we suggested as “Honghe green pit-viper” in English and “Hóng hé Zhú Yè Qīng (红河竹叶青)” in Chinese.

Diagnosis: (1) Head and body dorsum dark green, venter yellow green or light green. (2) 80% of the tail is rusty red, gradually fusing backwards, with dark red at the end of the tail. (3) Interstitial skin black. (4) Head dark green above, light yellow or light green below, clearly defined. (5) Iris brick red or sepia in males; iris yellow or rusty-red in females. (6) A white postocular stripe bordered above and below by red or only a white postocular stripe present in males, occupying only about 1–2 rows of scales across; postocular stripe white or absent in females. (7) Vivid, broad, bicolored ventrolateral stripe, red below and white above in males, covering 1–2 scales thick; thin white ventrolateral stripe present on the first row of DSR in females. (8) First supralabials separated from nasals. (9) Internasals separated by 0–2 scale. (10) Supraoculars separated by 9–12 smooth cephalic scales. (11) Head scales feebly keeled; 19 or 21 dorsal scale rows at mid-body, feebly keeled except for the outermost rows; VEN 150–165 in males (n=10), 157–165 in females (n=7); SC 61–76 in males (n=7), 56–61 in females (n=7). (12) Tail length to total length ratio (TaL/TL) 0.172–0.204 in males (n=7), 0.145–0.160 in females (n=7). (13) Hemipenes short and strongly spinose, with deep bifurcation.

 

Ya-Ting Liang, Li Ding, Xin Wang, Gernot Vogel, Sheng-Chao Shi, Xiong Gong, Zheng-Jun Wu and Ze-Ning Chen. 2025. Integrative Taxonomy identifies A New Species of Trimeresurus Lacépède, 1804 (Reptilia: Serpentes: Viperidae) from Yunnan Province, China. Zoological Research: Diversity and Conservation. 2(3): 182-195. DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2025.022