Species New to Science

Lunataspis gundersoni and comparative material of Limulus polyphemus (B-C).
(A) Holotype (specimen UWGM 4087). Expanded views of ovarian network are shown with eggs indicated by white arrows.

(B) Developing eggs sampled from a single gravid Limulus polyphemus.
(C) Ovarian network of Limulus polyphemus showing ovarian tubes.

(D) Interpretive drawing of holotype with ovarian tissue (orange), fossil surface (beige), cuticle (russet), and burrow trace (brown). (E) Holotype counterpart. (F) Paratype (UWGM 6422).

Lamsdell, Falk, Hegna & Meyer, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.1130/G53317.1

Abbreviations: cu—cuticle; e—eggs; ft—free tergite; la—leperditid arthropod; le—lateral eye; mn—median node; on—ovarian network; ot—ovarian tubes; pc— prosomal carapace; pt—pretelson; te—telson; tf—trace fossil; th—thoracetron;

Horseshoe crabs are an ancient lineage of aquatic chelicerate arthropods traditionally considered to be “living fossils” exhibiting limited morphological change throughout their evolution. This paradigm is challenged by the divergent morphologies of Paleozoic and Mesozoic xiphosurans in nonmarine environments, which show greater variation of prosomal carapace shape. Marine horseshoe crabs appear to exhibit a more conservative evolutionary history punctuated by marked increases in body size during the Carboniferous and Jurassic. However, interpretation of horseshoe crab evolutionary trends is complicated by uncertainty over whether the smaller Paleozoic species represent adults or juveniles. Here, we describe a diminutive 445-million-year-old horseshoe crab, Lunataspis gundersoni sp. nov., preserving details of ovarian structures in the prosoma. Unique among Xiphosura, the new species possesses an unusually prolongated prosoma, indicating early morphological variation within the group. However, the female reproductive system appears identical to that of extant Tachypleinae. Critically, the presence of eggs demonstrates that the specimens are adults and that horseshoe crabs were significantly smaller in size during the Paleozoic. Lunataspis gundersoni displays a mixture of divergent external and conserved internal anatomy that reveals mosaic evolutionary patterns and illustrates early morphological variation among marine Xiphosura.

Lunataspis gundersoni and comparative material of Limulus polyphemus.
(A) Holotype (specimen UWGM 4087). Expanded views of ovarian network are shown with eggs indicated by white arrows. (B) Developing eggs sampled from a single gravid Limulus polyphemus. (C) Ovarian network of Limulus polyphemus showing ovarian tubes. (D) Interpretive drawing of holotype with ovarian tissue (orange), fossil surface (beige), cuticle (russet), and burrow trace (brown). (E) Holotype counterpart. (F) Paratype (UWGM 6422).

Arthropoda Gravenhorst, 1843

Chelicerata Heymons, 1901

Xiphosura Latreille, 1802

Lunataspis Rudkin, Young & Nowlan, 2008

Lunataspis gundersoni sp. nov.

Etymology. Named in honor of the late Gerald Gunderson, co-discoverer of the Big Hill biota.

Diagnosis. Xiphosura with curved genal expansion of prosomal carapace; low ophthalmic ridges present posterior to lateral eyes; cardiac lobe comprising slight swelling without lateral furrows; opisthosoma with two freely articulating tergites anterior to thoracetron; thoracetron comprising six fused segments, segmental boundaries expressed axially; postabdomen comprising four freely articulating ankylosed segments, pretelsonic segment elongated; axial nodes present centrally on each opisthosomal segment excepting the pretelson; telson lanceolate. Differentiated from other Lunataspis species by the shovel-shaped anterior prolongation of the prosomal carapace.

James C. Lamsdell; Amanda R. Falk; Thomas A. Hegna and Ronald C. Meyer. 2025. Exceptionally preserved Ovaries in An ancient Horseshoe Crab. Geology. DOI: doi.org/10.1130/G53317.1 [May 29, 2025]

Pseuduvaria kwangtungensis (P.T.Li) Qing L.Wang & B.Xue,

in Q.L. Wang, Zhang, Shao, Z.-N. Wang et Xue, 2021.

DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.172.61025

Photos: Q. L. Wang (A–I); B. Xue (J, K).

Abstract

Meiogyne kwangtungensis is a rare species endemic to Hainan, China, known just from two fruiting collections made in the 1930s. Although it was published under the name Meiogyne in 1976, it was suggested that it might be better placed within Pseuduvaria or Mitrephora. For decades, this species was never collected again, thus its true generic affinity remained unresolved due to the lack of flowers. During a field exploration in Hainan, we re-discovered this species and collected a flowering specimen for the first time. The flower immediately confirmed its affinity with Pseuduvaria. Phylogenetic analyses of five chloroplast regions (psbA-trnH, trnL-F, matK, rbcL, and atpB-rbcL; ca. 4.2 kb, 70 accessions) also unambiguously placed Meiogyne kwangtungensis in the Pseuduvaria clade (PP = 1.00, ML BS = 99%). Morphologically, it is most similar to P. multiovulata which is endemic to Myanmar and Thailand, both with often-paired flowers, long pedicels and short peduncles, and often 1–2 monocarps. However, it differs in having smaller flowers with kidney-shaped glands on the inner petals, fewer stamens and carpels, smaller ovoid monocarps with an apicule and fewer seeds. On the basis of the combined molecular phylogenetic and morphological data, we propose a new combination, Pseuduvaria kwangtungensis (P.T.Li) Qing L.Wang & B.Xue. A full description including floral characters and a color plate are provided here for this species. A key to species in the genus Pseuduvaria in China is also provided.

Keywords: Annonaceae, Meiogyne, molecular phylogeny, morphology, Pseuduvaria

Morphology of Pseuduvaria kwangtungensis, comb. nov.
A flowering branch B inflorescence C bottom view of a male flower D side view of a male flower E male flower, top view, inner petals manually separated to show adaxial inner petal surface with paired glands F a female flower G gynoecium of the female flower, showing three carpels and two staminodes (with black and white arrows) H fruits I inside of a monocarp, showing seeds in two series J Single dried seed, showing the grooved raphe K section of the seed, showing the spiniform endosperm rumination.

Photos: Q. L. Wang (A–I); B. Xue (J, K).

Qing-Long Wang, Hui Zhang, Yun-Yun Shao, Zhu-Nian Wang and Bine Xue. 2021. A Second Species of Pseuduvaria in China: The Identity of the Enigmatic Species Meiogyne kwangtungensis. PhytoKeys. 172: 1-15. DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.172.61025

Onosma sanninensis

in Maalouf et Binzet, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.702.1.5

facebook.com/RamyMaaloufPhotography

Abstract

In this study, a new species of Onosma (Boraginaceae: Lithospermeae), subsect. Asterotricha, from Mount Sannine, Lebanon, is described and illustrated. This new species was conclusively identified through a comprehensive analysis of morphological features and geographical distributions compared across herbarium specimens from multiple collections. The new species is closely related to O. caerulescens and O. inexspectata, but it is different with 1–2 terminal cymes, smaller bracts, longer pedicels in fruit, larger calyx in flower and fruit, different corolla color, smaller anthers, and different pollen shape. Additionally, geographical distributions and map, an image of the holotype specimen, diagnostic characters, detailed photographs, habitat descriptions, and an identification key for the new species, O. caerulescens, and O. inexspectata are provided, along with a vernacular name and IUCN conservation status.

Boraginaceae, Onosma, Asterotricha, nova taxa, microendemic, Lebanon, Eudicots

Ramy MAALOUF and Riza BINZET. 2025. Onosma sanninensis (Boraginaceae), A New Species from the Mount Sannine Central Lebanon. Phytotaxa. 702(1); 72-82. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.702.1.5 [2025-05-22]

facebook.com/RamyMaaloufPhotography/posts/1283809297078118

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Caliphaea sinuofurcata

Sawant, Joshi, Pawar, Nawge & Kunte, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5637.1.6

Abstract

We describe a new species, Caliphaea sinuofurcata sp. nov., based on two male and one female specimens collected from Upper Siang District and Lower Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh, India. The newly described species can be distinguished from its congeners by characteristic shape of paraproct and genital ligula. Additionally, we provide illustrations of the male caudal appendages for all known Caliphaea spp.

Odonata, species description, species discovery, Indian Odonata, Dibang valley, Upper Siang District

Caliphaea sinuofurcata sp. nov.

Dattaprasad SAWANT, Shantanu JOSHI, Ujwala PAWAR, Viraj NAWGE and Krushnamegh KUNTE. 2025. Caliphaea sinuofurcata sp. nov. (Odonata: Zygoptera: Calopterygidae) from Arunachal Pradesh, India. Zootaxa. 5637(1); 139-154. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5637.1.6 [2025-05-20]

Bauhinia angelae

in Casas-Restrepo, Fonseca-Cortés et Queiroz, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.691.3.4

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Abstract

The Brazilian Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests and Woodlands represents an important evolutionary unit, widely recognized as a species center of diversification and endemism. The northeastern Brazilian Caatinga is the largest and most diverse SDTFW nucleus, exhibiting a important center of diversification in which the family Leguminosae exhibits the large number in genera and species richness and endemism, in which the genus Bauhinia stands out in species richness. Bauhinia angelae, a new species of shurbs or treelets is described, illustrated, and aspects related to its distribution, conservation status and relationships with morphologically similar species are discussed. Bauhinia angelae is characterized by the presences of triangular stipules, leaflets 3–10 × 2–7 cm, flower buds 2.5–6.5 cm long with the apex capitate and twisted lobes, oblong petals with undulate margins and mature fruits longer than 10 cm long. This new species is distributed in the Brazilian Caatinga between the states of Bahia and Minas Gerais. Additionally, a key to specie included in Bauhinia sect. Pauletia ser. Aculeatae is presented.

Cercidoideae, Fabaceae, Flora of Brazil, Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests and Woodlands, series Aculeatae, Eudicots

Luis Carlos CASAS-RESTREPO, Andrés FONSECA-CORTÉS and Luciano Paganucci de QUEIROZ. 2025. Bauhinia angelae (Leguminosae: Cercidoideae): An overlooked New Species from Drylands of Northeastern Brazil. Phytotaxa. 691(3); 271-281. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.691.3.4 [2025-03-07]

facebook.com/LuisCarlosCASASRESTREPO/posts/10162218575149643

Paragehyra tsaranoro

Belluardo, Piccoli, Lobón-Rovira, Alves, Rasoazanany, Andreone, Rosa & Crottini, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.151016

Abstract

Historically, herpetological research in Madagascar has largely overlooked small forest fragments outside the country protected area network. Despite substantial declines in species diversity compared to large continuous forests, these fragments continue to sustain diverse herpetological communities and frequently harbour microendemic species. We describe a new gecko belonging to the genus Paragehyra, apparently microendemic to small and isolated forest fragments surrounding the Andringitra Massif in south-eastern Madagascar.Paragehyra tsaranoro sp. nov. is different from its congeneric species based on genetic distances in mitochondrial markers (16S and COI), phylogenetic position, and the lack of haplotype sharing at one nuclear locus (POMC). The new species is also distinguishable from its congeners based on a combination of 14 morphological characters. New genetic and morphological data are also provided for the sympatric P. felicitae and we propose a new assessment of its conservation status within the IUCN Red List. Paragehyra tsaranoro sp. nov. and P. felicitae are mostly found in forest fragments managed by local communities (community-managed reserves) outside legally protected areas. This study highlights the importance of community-based management for the conservation of local herpetofauna, particularly in regions heavily impacted by anthropogenic pressure and largely unsuitable for forest-dwelling species. The findings emphasise the importance of conducting research on small forest fragments, as they are essential for completing the inventory of Malagasy herpetofauna.

Key words: Community-based management, deforestation, integrative taxonomy, mitochondrial DNA, morphology, nuclear DNA, reptiles

Photographs of Paragehyra tsaranoro sp. nov.
A holotype ZSM 11/2023 (ACZCV765) from Tsaranoro B ACZC10947 from Tsaranoro (voucher not collected)
C, E paratype ZSM 10/2023 (ACZCV600) from Iantaranomby (western slopes of Andringitra National Park)
D ACZC10946 from Tsaranoro (voucher not collected) F ACZC10951 from Tsaranoro (voucher not collected).

See Suppl. material 1 for sampling information and associated sequences available for these individuals. Photographs by Javier Lobón-Rovira. Species names anticipate the taxonomic decisions proposed in this study.

Paragehyra tsaranoro sp. nov.

Francesco Belluardo, Costanza Piccoli, Javier Lobón-Rovira, Ivo Oliveira Alves, Malalatiana Rasoazanany, Franco Andreone, Gonçalo M. Rosa and Angelica Crottini. 2025. A New microendemic Gecko from the small forest fragments of south-eastern Madagascar (Squamata, Gekkonidae, Paragehyra). ZooKeys. 1240: 1-38. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.151016

Karkenia bracteata

Frolov, Enushchenko & Mashchuk, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/spp2.70019

x.com/ThePalAss

Abstract

The family Karkeniaceae is the most ancient of the Ginkgoales. It is known from the lower Permian to the Lower Cretaceous. Cladistic analysis has shown that Karkeniaceae represents a distinct lineage among the Mesozoic ginkgoaleans and is much closer to Trichopitys. However, the absence of the complex ovule shoots of ginkgoaleans with remains of ‘intercalated bracts’ in the palaeontological record makes it difficult to reconstruct the transformation series linking Trichopityaceae to Karkeniaceae. Here, we report Karkenia bracteata sp. nov. from the Lower Jurassic of East Siberia (Russia). We examined impressions and compressions using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Karkenia bracteata consists of the main axis bearing helically arranged bract–ovule complexes, each composed of a long laminar bract subtending and sheathing an ovule stalk with a single ovule. The presence of a bract distinguishes this species from all known Karkenia. However, the ovule structure, stomatal guard cells and megaspore membrane indicate that the new species belongs to Karkeniaceae. Karkenia could have evolved from Trichopitys due to reduction and condensation from an ancestral state. The ovulate short shoots must have fused to form a compact structure, while the main axis was strongly reduced. The leaves of such branches became reduced and further disappeared. Therefore, the leaves of the intermediate form between Trichopitys and Karkenia must have been bracts. Thus, K. bracteata corresponds to the hypothetical intermediate form linking Trichopityaceae to Karkeniaceae and confirms the hypothesis of the cone-like nature of Karkenia megastrobili.

Keywords: Trichopitys, Sphenobaiera, Ginkgoales, palaeobiogeography, compound seed cone, intercalated bract

Karkenia bracteata sp. nov.

Andrey О. Frolov, Ilya V. Enushchenko and Irina M. Mashchuk. 2025. A New Species of Karkenia (Karkeniaceae, Ginkgoales) from the Lower Jurassic of East Siberia (Russia): palaeobiogeographical and evolutionary implications. Papers in Palaeontology. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/spp2.70019 [02 June 2025]

x.com/ThePalAss/status/1929929547681542238

Iago gopalakrishnani

Bineesh, Beura, Das, Nashad & Akhilesh, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.21077/ijf.2025.72.1.152519-03

Abstract

Sharks of the genus Iago Compagno and Springer, 1971 (Carcharhiniformes: Triakidae) that commonly occur in the deep waters of the Indo-Pacific, are an interesting group phylogenetically. Currently, three nominal species of Iago are known globally, namely, Iago garricki, I. omanensis and I. mangalorensis. In this study, we describe a new species of hound shark, Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov. from the deep waters of eastern Arabian Sea, India. Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov. is distinct in its dark chocolate brown to blackish colouration and low fins; pre-oral length 4.7–6% TL, 22.4-25% head length; first dorsal height 5.8-7% TL, first dorsal length 10.6–14.1% TL, first dorsal base length 6.7-9.8% TL, second dorsal length 8.9-10.9% TL and vertebral counts 117-123. Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov. is genetically distinct from congeners. COI based analysis of Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov formed a distinct clade in phylogenetic reconstruction with a genetic distance of 4.5-5.2% when comparing K2P parameters with congeners.

Keywords: Diversity, Genetics, Indian Ocean, Morphology, Sharks, Taxonomy

Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov.
(a) Holotype dorsal view, Reg. No. MBRCF3164, adult female, 447 mm TL.
(b) Paratype dorsal view, Reg. No. MBRCF3165, adult male, 450 mm TL, (c) Paratype lateral view.

Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov.
(a) Holotype, Regd. No. MBRCF3164, adult female, 447 mm TL, ventral view of head.
(b) Paratype 1, Regd. No. MBRCF3165, adult male, 450 mm TL, ventral view of head.

Iago gopalakrishnani sp. nov.

K. K. Bineesh, Sweta Beura, Moumita Das, M. Nashad and K. V. Akhilesh. 2025. Description of A New Species of Hound Shark, of the Genus Iago (Carcharhiniformes: Triakidae) from the northern Indian Ocean. Indian Journal of Fisheries. 72(1); DOI: doi.org/10.21077/ijf.2025.72.1.152519-03

Epidendrum manusalinasiae L.E.Alfaro, J.Duarte & Hágsater,

in Alfaro, Salinas, Hágsater et Cano, 2024.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.664.1.6

Researchgate.net/publication/385941787

Abstract

We describe and illustrate a new species of Epidendrum from the high Andean forests of Manu National Park, Cusco. Epidendrum manusalinasiae belongs the Saxicola group. Information on its distribution, habitat, phenology, and conservation status is provided. The new species is compared with E. churubambense, E. herreranum and E. tetartociclium from which it is distinguished by having leaves elliptic to widely elliptic, flowers pale yellow to green, sepals sometimes tinged red-brown, column and calli creamy yellow, lip disc with large, fleshy thickened, forming wide cordiform platform, wider than mid-lobe and reaching its base and mid-lobe whit distal portion plicated forward, whit a sub-lobed appearance in natural position.

Epidendrum diversity, Kosñipata, Saxicola group, taxonomy, Monocots

LCDP of Epidendrum manusalinasiae, from the type collection.
A. Habit. B. Flower, front view. C. Flower, lateral view. D. Ovary, column and lip, lateral view. E. Dissected perianth. F. Column, ventral and lateral view. G. Anther cap and pollinarium.

(Prepared by Miguel A. Pedraza, photos by Lucero E. Alfaro Curitumay).

Habitat of Epidendrum manusalinasiae
A-B. Terrestrial, and epiphytic habit C. Flowers, close-up. D. Epiphytic plant in shade, leaves green. E. Terrestrial plant in full sun, leaves tinged reddish.

Photos by Lucero E. Alfaro Curitumay (A, E) and Miguel A. Pedraza A (D).

Epidendrum manusalinasiae L.E.Alfaro, J.Duarte & Hágsater

Species of Saxicola group similar to Epidendrum manusalinasiae:
A. Epidendrum manusalinasiae; photographer L. Alfaro (L. Alfaro 22 [USM]).
B. Epidendrum tetartociclium, B. Collantes (R. Suarez & G. Alegría 006 ex B. Collantes 903 [USM]). C. Epidendrum churubambense, L. Ocupa (L. Ocupa 298 [USM]). D. Epidendrum herreranum, B. Collantes (B. Collantes 918 [USM]).

Lucero E. ALFARO, Julian Duarte SALINAS, Eric HÁGSATER and Asunción CANO. 2024. Epidendrum manusalinasiae (Orchidaceae: Laeliinae), New Species from the high Andean Forests of Manu National Park, Cusco, Perú. Phytotaxa. 664(1); 68-74. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.664.1.6 [2024-09-03]

Researchgate.net/publication/385941787_Epidendrum_manusalinasiae_A_new_species_from_the_high_Andean_forests_of_Manu_NP_Peru

Aspidistra yangchunensis S.P.Dong & Z.L.,

in Dong, Huang et Ning, 2024.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.647.1.6

Abstract

Aspidistra yangchunensis, a new species of Asparagaceae from Guangdong, southern China, is described and illustrated. Aspidistra yangchunensis resembles A. subrotata, but can be distinguished by the syntepalous part of perigone almost flat, 4 alternate perigone lobes folded at base in full bloom, pure white pistil, lower surface of stigma folds inward to form a circular inner space.

morphology, plant diversity, taxonomy, Monocots

Aspidistra yangchunensis S.P.Dong & Z.L.Ning

Shu-Peng DONG, Yi HUANG and Zu-Lin NING. 2024. Aspidistra yangchunensis (Asparagaceae), A New Species from Guangdong, China. Phytotaxa. 647(1); 115-120. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.647.1.6 [2024-05-08]

http://english.scib.cas.cn/news/202405/t20240517_663078.html

Elaiophis inornatus (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) comb. n.

Elaiophis gen. n.

Tiutenko, Maliuk & Koch, 2025

Salamandra. 61(2);

Abstract

This article is the second part of a revision of the systematics of Boaedontini Dowling, 1969 and a follow-up to the work by Tiutenko et al. (2022). As a result of morphological and phylogenetic analyses, further taxonomic actions are taken in the genus Lycodonomorphus Fitzinger, 1843. Lamprophis inornatus Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854, a species initially described in the genus Lamprophis and subsequently assigned to Lycodonomorphus, is here transferred to a new monotypic genus on a basis of combined criteria including genetic distance, morphology, ecology and biogeography. For improved taxonomic stability of the species and the new genus, a neotype for L. inornatus is designated from the specimen ZFMK 032712. The lectotype of Boodon infernalis Günther, 1858 is designated from one of three extant syntypes NHMUK 1858.4.11.5 and the type locality of this species, that is currently treated as a junior synonym of L. inornatus, is restricted to Durban, South Africa. The name ‘infernalis’ should be available if the species status of this northern clade would become restored. Lycodonomorphus subtaeniatus Laurent, 1954, another former Lycodonomorphus species long assumed to be a member of Boaedon, is here formally assigned to this genus and tentatively placed next to Boaedon upembae (Laurent, 1954) and Boaedon virgatus (Hallowell, 1854) on a basis of pholidosis, cranial morphology and dentition. The tribe Boaedontini now contains nine genera that can be separated by morphological characters according to the proposed key. The genus Lycodonomorphus still requires attention of taxonomists, as it contains species, such as L. bicolor, L. laevissimus, L. leleupi, L. mlanjensis, L. obscuriventris, and L. whytii, with uncertain taxonomic position and in this sense has to be viewed as sensu lato.

Key words. Squamata, Elaiophis, nomenclature, osteology, skull, taxonomy

Adult specimens of Elaiophis inornatus comb. n. from Makhanda / Grahamstown, Eastern Cape (A), and Haenertsburg, Limpopo (B).

Photographs by G. K. Nicolau.

Head morphology details (drawings) and general appearance of
Boaedon capensis (A), Lycodonomorphus rufulus (B),
Lamprophis aurora (C), Lycodonomorphus inornatus(D).

Photographs by L. Kemp (A–C) and G. K. Nicolau (D).

Elaiophis gen. n.

Type species: Lamprophis inornatus Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854,

by present designation.

Diagnosis: Body cylindric, moderately short. Head moderately depressed. Eye medium-sized to small. Tail short, representing ca. 12–15% of the total length. Head trapezoidal, broader posteriorly, moderately distinct from neck. Snout blunt, square-shaped. Rostral rather large, approximately as high as broad, well visible from below and above. Nasal divided. Eye medium-sized, with wide sub-elliptical pupil. Anterior chin shields equal in size to the posterior or slightly longer. Loreal single, rectangular, horizontally elongate. No labial pits. No loreal grooves. Dorsal scales with two apical pits, arranged in 23 rows at the middle of the body. Subcaudals paired. Anal entire. 18–19 maxillary, 10–11 palatine, 17–19 pterygoid, 20–23 mandibular teeth. No diastemata. Maxillary teeth subequal. Mandibular teeth 2–7 strongly enlarged. Hemipenis bilobal, shallowly forked; sulcus spermaticus centrifugal, dividing approximately half way up shaft. Dorsal colour olive-green, olive, dark brownish olive, glaucous, dark neutral grey. Ventral colour cream white, or pale neutral grey

Content: The genus is currently monotypic, containing one species – Elaiophis inornatus (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) comb. n.

Etymology: In South Africa where this snake is distributed it is called ‘Olive Snake’ in English, or ’Olyfslang’ in Afrikaans. Both names refer to the dorsal colour. The new genus name ‘Elaiophis’ is a translation of these vernacular names into Latin, being a compound of the Greek words ὄφις (snake) and ἐλαία (olive). Since the head of the nominal compound (‘ophis’) is masculine, the new noun is of the same gender. As English name for the new genus, we suggest ‘African olive snakes’.

Tiutenko, A., A. Maliuk and C. Koch. 2025. Generic Affinities of African House Snakes Revised: A New Genus for Lamprophis inornatus (Serpentes: Lamprophiidae: Lamprophiinae: Boaedontini). Salamandra. 61(2); 215-239.

https://www.salamandra-journal.com/index.php/contents/2025-vol-61/2182-tiutenko,-a-,-a-maliuk-c-koch/file

Tarenna pendula Y.H.Qin, S.X.Yu & W.H.Wu,

in Qin, Bussmann, Liu, Li, Xia, Wu et Yu, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.257.148816

Abstract

The species Tarenna pendula (Rubiaceae), a small shrub, is newly described and illustrated from southwestern Guangxi Autonomous Region, China. This species is similar to Tarenna tsangii but is readily distinguished by its asymmetrical leaves, larger vegetative leaves than inflorescence leaves, adaxially pilosulous blades, pendulous inflorescences, longer pedicels (15–35 mm vs. 4–7 mm in T. tsangii), shorter corolla tubes (1–1.4 cm vs. 1.8–1.9 cm), multiple ovules per locule (vs. two), and sparsely pubescent fruits containing 13–19 seeds (vs. glabrous fruit containing only four seeds).

Key words: Distribution, Ixoroideae, morphology, Pavetteae, taxonomy

Tarenna pendula sp. nov.
A flowering branches B portion of inflorescence showing stipule C portion of stem showing stipule D portions of adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces, (D1) pressure side of blade, (D2) low pressure side of blade E flower F stamen G longitudinally opened corolla showing the position of the stamens H pedicel, bracteoles, ovary and calyx I ovary, calyx, style and stigma J fruit K cross section of ovary L longitudinal section of fruit.

Drawings by Lijie Zhu, based on type specimens.

Tarenna pendula sp. nov.
A habitat B flowering branch C pendulous cyme D flower (D1) and ovary and calyx (D2) E longitudinally opened corolla F ovary, calyx, style and stigma G fruiting branch H blade in adaxial view (H1) and in abaxial view (H2) I young fruits in different developmental stages J unripe seeds clustered together (after removal of fruit wall) K unripe seeds.

 Tarenna pendula Y.H.Qin, S.X.Yu & W.H.Wu, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Similar to Tarenna tsangii, but distinguished by its small form, asymmetrical leaves, vegetative leaves larger than inflorescence leaves, blades adaxially pilosulous, pendulous inflorescences, longer pedicels (15–35 mm vs. 4–7 mm in T. tsangii), shorter corolla tubes (1–1.4 cm vs. 1.8–1.9 cm), multiple ovules per locule (vs. 2), and sparsely pubescent fruits with 13–19 seeds (vs. glabrous fruit containing only 4 seeds).

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from the pendulous inflorescence, which differs from several other Tarenna spp. in the area.

Vernacular name. Chuixiu wukoushu in Mandarin Chinese,

which translates to ‘pendulous Tarenna’.

Yong-Hua Qin, Rainer W. Bussmann, Zhi-Rong Liu, Man Li, Chang-Ying Xia, Wang-Hui Wu and Sheng-Xiang Yu. 2025. Tarenna pendula (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 257: 1-8. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.257.148816

Cyrtodactylus kampingpoiensis

Quah, L. L. Grismer, Sinovas, Chourn, Chhin, Hun, Cobos, Geissler, Ching, Murdoch, Thi, Gregory, Nguyen, Hernandez, Kaatz & J. L. Grismer, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.139691

Abstract

A new species of karst-dwelling Bent-toed Gecko (genus Cyrtodactylus) is described from an unexplored karstic archipelago in western Cambodia. Cyrtodactylus kampingpoiensis sp. nov. is composed of four allopatric, monophyletic mitochondrial lineages based on the ND2 gene. All are statistically diagnosable from one another based on univariate (ANOVA) and multivariate (PCA, DAPC, and MFA) analyses using a suite of size-corrected morphometric, meristic, and categorical color pattern and morphological characters. Uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence among them is low (1.4–2.2%), indicating a recent divergence from one another. Given their allopatry, diagnosability, monophyly (i.e., no individuals from one population are embedded within another), we contend they are on separate evolutionary trajectories with no chance of secondary overlap via dispersal through the current unhabitual terrain or through the unlikely future coalescence of the karstic formations on which they occur. The discovery of this new species underscores the necessity for further exploration to gain a more informed understanding of the herpetological diversity of Cambodia in general, and that of western Cambodia in particular, where dozens of isolated karstic formations still remain unexplored.

Key words: Bent-toed gecko, genetics, Indochina, integrative taxonomy, karstic archipelago

Cyrtodactylus kampingpoiensis sp. nov.
A adult male holotype LSUHC 15206 B gravid adult female LSUHC 15207
C adult female LSUHC 15205 D juvenile LSUHC 15176

Cyrtodactylus kampingpoiensis sp. nov. is

Evan S. H. Quah, L. Lee Grismer, Pablo Sinovas, Phyroum Chourn, Sophea Chhin, Seiha Hun, Anthony Cobos, Peter Geissler, Christian Ching, Matthew L. Murdoch, Sothearen Thi, Jeren J. Gregory, Eddie Nguyen, Alexis P. Hernandez, Amanda Kaatz and Jesse L. Grismer. 2025. Geographically structured Genetic and Morphological Variation in A New Species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from a karstic archipelago in western Cambodia. ZooKeys. 1240: 73-115. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.139691

Pareas capitulatus

Stuart, Seateun, Sivongxay, Souvannavong & Phimmachak, 2025

Narrow-headed Snail-eating Snake | ງູໜ້າສັ້ນດາກຈຶງ ||

DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2024.028

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Abstract

The slug-eating snakes of the Pareas hamptoni species group consist of approximately 15 species distributed across mainland Southeast Asia into northeastern India and southern China. A single specimen collected from the Dakchung Plateau in Xekong Province of southeastern Laos is shown to be molecularly and morphologically distinct from all related species in the P. hamptoni species group and is described as a new species. Pareas capitulatus sp. nov. is a smooth-scaled species having a distinctively narrow head and pattern on the nuchal region that was recovered as the sister taxon to approximately half of the members of the P. hamptoni species group. The inclusion of additional samples of P. geminatus from northern Laos demonstrated the non-monophyly of that taxon with respect to the morphologically similar P. xuelinensis and P. yunnanensis, all of which have type localities in Yunnan Province of southern China. To reconcile this taxonomic problem, P. geminatus and P. xuelinensis are treated as junior synonyms of P. yunnanensis. With these revisions, three species in the P. hamptoni species group are recognized from Laos: P. capitulatus sp. nov., P. formosensis, and P. yunnanensis. Further field surveys on the Dakchung Plateau and vicinity are needed to determine the geographic distribution and morphological variation in P. capitulatus sp. nov.

Keywords: Dakchung Plateau, Integrative taxonomy, Pareas geminatus, Pareas xuelinensis, Pareas yunnanensis

Holotype female (NCSM 78628) of Pareas capitulatus sp. nov. in life
A: Anterior body in dorsolateral view. B: Head and neck in dorsolateral view.

Photos by Bryan L. Stuart.

Pareas capitulatus sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Pareas capitulatus sp. nov. is distinguished from all other species of Pareas by having the combination of yellow-brown colouration with transverse dark bars on body; frontal shield-shaped, with lateral sides converging posteriorly; all body scales smooth; single vertebral scale row slightly enlarged; head distinctly narrow, with eyes projecting beyond parallel lateral margins of head in dorsal view; supralabials seven; infralabials six; ventral scales 175; subcaudals 75; a complete light band on occiput followed posteriorly by a complete dark nuchal marking; and two dark stripes on side of head consisting of an oblique dark stripe from posterior margin of eye to mouth and a transverse dark stripe from top of head to near corner of mouth.

Etymology: The specific epithet capitulatus is a Latin adjective for “having a small head,” in reference to the distinctly narrow head of the new species. Suggested common names are Narrow-headed Snail-eating Snake (English) and ງູໜ້າສັ້ນດາກຈຶງ (phonetically Ngou Nasan Dakchung; Lao).

Bryan L. Stuart, Sengvilay Seateun, Niane Sivongxay, Siliphone Souvannavong and Somphouthone Phimmachak. 2025. A New Species in the Pareas hamptoni group (Squamata, Pareidae) from southeastern Laos. Zoological Research: Diversity and Conservation. DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2024.028

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Lento yaguar

Medeiros & Mielke, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.11606/1807-0205/2025.65.019

Abstract

A rare new species of skipper butterfly from the western Amazon Basin (Cuzco and Madre de Dios, Peru and Acre, Brazil) belonging to the subtribe Moncina (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) is herein described: Lento yaguar Medeiros & O. Mielke sp. nov. The new species can be easily recognized by the conspicuous yellow and black hind wing ventral pattern, that resembles the peculiar color of a jaguar’s skin. This interesting pattern is unique among Hesperiidae, and a similar pattern occurs only in a few species of Riodinidae. The presence of an unusual, modified scale patch on the male abdominal tergites III, IV, and V of L. yaguar sp. nov., is herein hypothesized as an androconial organ and represents the first record of this kind of structure on the abdominal tergum of a skipper species.

Keywords: Lento yaguar, Morphology, New taxa, Skippers, Taxonomy

Lento yaguar sp. nov.
(1-5) Holotype male. (1) Head in dorsal view, highlighting the blue frons. (2) antenna in ventral view. (3) Nudo. (4-5) dorsal, and ventral views.
(6-7) Allotype Female, dorsal, and ventral views. The red arrows point to the main differences between males and females.

Adalberto Dantas de Medeiros and Olaf Hermann Hendrik Mielke. 2025. A rare New Species of Lento Evans, 1955 (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) from the western Amazon Basin. Papéis Avulsos De Zoologia. 65; e202565019. DOI: doi.org/10.11606/1807-0205/2025.65.019

Brachistosternus pehuenche

Ojanguren-Affilastro, Alfaro, Iuri, Camousseigt-Montolivo & Pizarro-Araya, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.146451

Abstract

Brachistosternus pehuenche sp. nov. (Scorpiones, Bothriuridae) is described from the Mauline Andean forests of the northern Chilean Patagonia, located within the upper basin of the Maule Valley. Its unique geography and the discovery of this partial isolation, as a result of the surrounding higher altitudes, support the role of this valley as a biodiversity hotspot, fostering a variety of endemic epigean arthropods. The discovery of this third endemic scorpion species highlights the area’s ecological uniqueness. The species is most similar to Brachistosternus negrei, a species found in the southern Chilean forests, but distinct morphological traits, such as pigmentation patterns and metasomal structures, clearly separate the two. This study underscores the ecological value of the Maule Valley, which, despite its high endemism, remains unprotected and is subject to significant anthropogenic pressures, including agriculture, hydropower projects, and international transit routes. The need for conservation initiatives in this region is critical to preserve its exceptional biodiversity. This work not only adds to the taxonomy of Brachistosternus but also raises fundamental questions about the processes driving endemism in the Andes and the broader implications for the conservation of montane ecosystems.

Key Words: Area of endemism, Bothriuridae, Chile, Mauline woods, new species, Scorpiones

Brachistosternus pehuenche sp. nov., habitus.
A. Male, dorsal aspect; B. Male, ventral aspect;
C. Female, dorsal aspect; D. Female, ventral aspect. Scale bar: 1 cm.

Brachistosternus pehuenche sp. nov. (Scorpiones; Bothriuridae).

A. Preying on an adult of Athlia rustica (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae); B. Climbing on branches of Lobelia sp. (Campanulaceae) in a hunting position for flying insects; C. Male, living specimen.

Brachistosternus pehuenche sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Brachistosternus pehuenche sp. nov. is most similar to B. negrei, which is the only Brachistosternus species occurring in nearby areas of the south-central Chilean woods. Both species can be easily distinguished by several morphological characters. Brachistosternus pehuenche, on one hand, has tergites that bear two lateral spots, with pigment occupying most of the posterior lateral margins and leaving a median unpigmented stripe (Figs 4A, C, 5A); B. negrei, on the other hand, has five spots on each segment, one antero-median, two lateral, and two postero-submedian, in some cases connected by faint reticulate pigment (Fig. 5E). The metasomal segments I–IV of B. pehuenche bear two VL narrow stripes and a VM wide stripe (the VM stripe can be very faint or absent in segments I–III) (Fig. 5B), whereas in B. negrei there are two VL stripes and two VSM stripes (VSM stripes can be faint or absent in segments I–III) (Fig. 5F). The paired dorsal glands of metasomal segment V of males, or Androvestigia, are medium-sized in B. pehuenche, occupying from a third to almost the entire posterior half of the segment (Fig. 5C), whereas in B. negrei these glands are small, occupying between 10 to 25 percent of the dorsal surface of the segment (Fig. 5G). Metasomal segment V is more granular ventrally in B. pehuenche than in B. negrei, with some granules even forming a slight ventro-median carinae in the former (Fig. 5D), whereas in B. negrei there is no VM carina at all, and ventral granules are more sparse and smaller (Fig. 5H).

Etymology: The specific epithet “pehuenche” is a noun in apposition referring to the Pehuenche International Pass between Argentina and Chile, in the northern Patagonia, where this and other endemic scorpion species have been collected. Pehuenche is also the name of the indigenous people of this area, belonging to the Mapuche cultural group.

Andrés A. Ojanguren-Affilastro, Fermín M. Alfaro, Hernán A. Iuri, Bernardino Camousseigt-Montolivo and Jaime Pizarro-Araya. 2025. Description of Brachistosternus pehuenche sp. nov. (Scorpiones, Bothriuridae), A New scorpion Species from the upper Maule Valley, in the southern Chilean Andes. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 101(3): 969-981. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.146451

Murina beibengensis Luo, Mao & Zhou,
Murina yadongensis Mao, Zhao & Zhou,
Murina medogensis Mao, Lan & Zhou,

in Luo, Mao, Lan, Zhao, Z.-L. Wang, Yu, J.-J. Wang, Yan, Xiao & Zhou, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.144375

Abstract

The genus Murina Gray, 1842, recently had four new species discovered in China over the last four years, suggesting its diversity may have been previously underestimated. Herein, we describe four new species—Murina beibengensis sp. nov., Murina medogensis sp. nov., Murina milinensis sp. nov., and Murina yadongensis sp. nov.—based on morphological and genetic evidence from specimens collected during bat diversity surveys conducted in the Xizang Autonomous Region of China over the past three years. Each of these four new species forms an independent lineage on a phylogenetic tree reconstructed using the mitochondrial COI and Cyt b genes, and each is genetically distinct from its congeners. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from the 43 recognized congeners by features including forearm length, hair color, and skull morphology. We elevated M. huttoni rubella from a subspecies of M. huttoni to a species based on morphological and genetic evidence. The new species discussed herein increase the number of species in the genus Murina to four worldwide and from 23 to 28 in China. This study not only enriches our understanding of bat species diversity but also underscores the importance of conducting bat surveys in the specialized highland habitats of the Himalayas.

Key Words: Diversity, Himalaya, morphology, Murina, taxonomy

Murina beibengensis Luo, Mao & Zhou, sp. nov.

Murina milinensis Luo, Mao & Zhou, sp. nov.

Murina yadongensis Mao, Zhao & Zhou, sp. nov.

Murina medogensis Mao, Lan & Zhou, sp. nov.

 Murina rubella Thomas, 1914

Tao Luo, Ming-Le Mao, Chang-Ting Lan, Zi-Fa Zhao, Zhong-Lian Wang, Jing Yu, Jia-Jia Wang, Chen-Rui Yan, Ning Xiao and Jiang Zhou. 2025. Four New Tube-nosed Bat Species of the Genus Murina (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) from Xizang Autonomous Region, China, based on morphological and molecular data. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 101(3): 1023-1055. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.144375

Myotis himalaicus

Saikia, Chakravarty, Csorba, Laskar & Ruedi, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5644.1.1

facebook.com: Rohit CHAKRAVARTY

Abstract

Based on specimens collected during recent field surveys and re–examination of museum specimens, we critically reviewed the taxonomic status of several bat species occurring in the Western Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in India. The present review incorporates both morphological and molecular data and additionally illustrates new echolocation call characters of some little–known species from the region. A new species, Myotis himalaicus sp. nov., belonging to the My. frater complex is described based on multiple evidence of unique characters. We revised putative records of Tadarida teniotis as Ta. insignis and report this species for the first time from India. We also detail the first occurrence of Rhinolophus nippon, Hypsugo savii and My. sicarius from the Western Himalayas. We conclusively delineatePipistrellus babuoccurring in the Western Himalayas as a species distinct from Pi. javanicus in Southeast Asia and draw attention to several species–complexes (i.e. Rhinolophus macrotis, Eptesicus pachyomus, Murina cyclotis or Mu. huttonii) where further material and analyses are needed to clarify the species boundaries.

Mammalia, Himalayas, Chiroptera, systematics, DNA barcode, echolocation

Myotis himalaicus sp. nov

Uttam SAIKIA, Rohit CHAKRAVARTY, Gabor CSORBA, Mostaque Ahmed LASKAR and Manuel RUEDI. 2025. Taxonomic Reassessment of Bats from the Western Himalayas, India and Description of A New Species of the Myotis frater complex (Mammalia, Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae). Zootaxa. 5644(1); 1-78. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5644.1.1 [2025-06-05]

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Researchgate.net/publication/392409770_Taxonomic_reassessment_of_bats_from_the_Western_Himalayas_India

Hampala lupar
Hampala katibas

Tan & Grinang, 2025

RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 73;

Abstract

Two new species of Hampala are described from Borneo Island. Hampala lupar, new species, is closely allied to H. bimaculata but differs in having three black bars on the body, vs. two bars; with the additional black bar just posterior to head. Hampala lupar is distinguished from all congeners by the following combination of characters: lateral line scales 26–27; three black bars on body, even at juvenile stage; upper and lower edges of caudal fin with a black marginal stripe; all fins orange with caudal fin reddish-orange when alive. Hampala katibas, new species, is similar to H. bimaculata but differs in having two large black blotches on the body, vs. two curved black bars; amongst other characters. Both new species are separated by the Lupar Geological Divide.

Key words. Southeast Asia, Sundaland, taxonomy, freshwater fish, Cypriniformes

Hampala lupar, new species;
not preserved, ca. 300 mm SL, showing live colouration from Sarawak: Bau area (image from Mike Lo);
not preserved, ca. 60 mm SL, showing live colouration from Sarawak Kanan River population (sides inverted, image from Jongkar Grinang).

Hampala lupar, new species

Etymology. Named after the Lupar River basin, where it was first recorded in the 1980s. Used as a noun in genitive. Cramphorn (1982: 29) who had misidentified H. lupar as “H. bimaculata (3 spots)”, listed the following local names for this species: Adong Tekalang Maioh (Iban) and Adong Takalang Banyak (Malay).

Hampala katibas, new species
fresh colouration from Sarawak: Katibas, not preserved, ca. 350 mm SL (image from Low Bi Wei);
Brunei: Belalong, not preserved, ca. 160 mm SL;
Brunei: Belalong, ZRC uncatalogued, ca. 160 mm SL.

Hampala katibas, new species

Etymology. Named after the Katibas River sub-basin draining into the Rejang River. Used as a noun in genitive.

Tan Heok Hui and Jongkar Grinang. 2025. Two New Species of Hampala from Borneo (Teleostei: Cyprinidae). RAFFLES BULLETIN OF ZOOLOGY. 73;

Traccatichthys punctulatus

Qin, Zhou, Du & Lin, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.146077

Abstract

Traccatichthys punctulatus is here described from the Liu-Jiang flowing into the Xi-Jiang of the Pearl River basin at Jinxiu County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China. It is distinguished from all congeners by having a unique body coloration of a series of brown spots along the lateral line and dorsal-fin. Other diagnostic characters, not unique to this new species, are caudal-fin and lateral body colorations, and absence of pectoral-fin tuberculation. Its validity is further confirmed by its monophyly recovered in a molecular phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial COI and Cyt b gene sequences and species-level divergence between the new species and its closest relatives.

Key Words: Genetic divergence, morphological differentiation, species description, taxonomy

Morphological characteristics of Traccatichthys punctulatus sp. nov.
A–C. Lateral, dorsal, and ventral views of holotype KIZ 2005013850; D. Living photograph; E–G. Lateral, dorsal, and ventral views of morphologic variation KIZ 2005013862. Scale bars: 1 cm.

Traccatichthys punctulatus sp. nov.

Zhi-Xian Qin, Jia-Jun Zhou, Li-Na Du and Feng Lin. 2025. Traccatichthys punctulatus sp. nov., A New Species of Stone Loach (Pisces, Nemacheilidae) from Guangxi, southern China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 101(3): 1013-1021. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.146077

Quasipaa binhi

C. T. Pham, Hoang, Phan, A. V. Pham, Ong, V. H. T. Nguyen, Ziegler & T. Q. Nguyen, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.147337

Abstract

This study provides a taxonomic revision of the Quasipaa verrucospinosa complex in Vietnam. Based on integrative taxonomic analyses, Quasipaa verrucospinosa sensu stricto is distributed in Lao Cai, Vinh Phuc, Ha Giang, and Tuyen Quang provinces. Other records of Quasipaa verrucospinosa in northern and central Vietnam revealed to be representatives of two new species: Quasipaa ohlerae sp. nov. from Son La, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An provinces and Quasipaa binhi sp. nov. from Quang Binh and Thua Thien Hue provinces. The two new species morphologically differ from each other and from other known species in the genus Quasipaa in size, skin texture, color pattern, and nuptial spines. The molecular analysis based on 16S rRNA and Cytb gene fragments showed that the genetic divergence between Quasipaa ohlerae sp. nov. and other congeners ranges from 2.96% (compared with Q. delacouri and Quasipaa binhi sp. nov.) to 7.89% (compared with Q. exilispinosa) in the 16S gene and from 13.81% (compared with Q. delacouri) to 22.91% (compared with Quasipaa sp.) in the Cytb gene, while the p-distances between Quasipaa binhi sp. nov. and its congeners ranges from 2.34% (compared with Q. delacouri) to 6.12% (compared with Quasipaa sp.) in the 16S gene and from 10.15% (compared with Q. delacouri) to 21.88% (compared with Q. boulengeri) in the Cytb gene. These new findings bring the total number of known species in the genus Quasipaa to 15 and the recorded species from Vietnam to eight.

Key words: 16S rRNA, Cytb, molecular phylogeny, morphology, Quasipaa, taxonomy

Quasipaa ohlerae sp. nov.
holotype (IEBR A.5159, male) in life A dorsolateral view B ventral view.
paratypes in life A dorsolateral view (IEBR A.5161, male) B dorsolateral view (IEBR A.5160, female).

Habitat of Quasipaa ohlerae sp. nov. in Xuan Lien Nature Reserve, Thanh Hoa Province, Viet Nam A microhabitat B evergreen forest.

Quasipaa ohlerae sp. nov.

from Son La, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An provinces.

Quasipaa binhi sp. nov., paratypes in life
A dorsolateral view (IEBR A.5180, female) B ventral view (IEBR A.5180, female)
C dorsolateral view (IEBR A.5183, male) D ventral view (IEBR A.5183, male).

Habitat of Quasipaa binhi sp. nov. in Dong Chau-Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve, Quang Binh Province, Viet Nam A microhabitat B evergreen forest.

Quasipaa binhi sp. nov.

from Quang Binh and Thua Thien Hue provinces.

Cuong The Pham, Chung Van Hoang, Tien Quang Phan, Anh Van Pham, An Vinh Ong, Vien Hong Thi Nguyen, Thomas Ziegler and Truong Quang Nguyen. 2025. Taxonomic Revision of the Quasipaa verrucospinosa complex (Amphibia, Dicroglossidae) in Vietnam, with Descriptions of Two New Species. ZooKeys. 1240: 139-175. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.147337

[A-C] Labrochromis mawe
[G-I] Labrochromis mawepili

Mahulu & Seehausen, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.125699

Abstract

Lake Victoria is home to a unique and taxonomically understudied species flock of endemic haplochromine cichlid fishes, with many morphologically specialized trophic groups and many different species in each of them. One of several mollusk-eating trophic groups are the pharyngeal snail-crushers of the genus Labrochromis Regan, 1920. Currently, six species from Lake Victoria have been described in this genus, none of which occupies rocky shores and reefs. Rocky shores and reefs of Lake Victoria, however harbor rich assemblages of habitat-specialized cichlids and these include snail-crushers. Here two new species of Labrochromis are described from this habitat in the Southeastern part of Lake Victoria. These species are distinct in their ecology, morphology, and male nuptial coloration from all previously described Labrochromis species, and they are distinct from each other in oral dentition, morphology, and stripe pattern. These species are named Labrochromis mawe sp. nov. and Labrochromis mawepili sp. nov. Both are currently only known from the Mwanza and Speke Gulf regions of the lake in Tanzania.

Key words: Haplochromine, Mwanza Gulf, pharyngeal crusher, Speke Gulf, taxonomy

A male Labrochromis mawe sp. nov. blue morph Python Island B male L. mawe sp. nov. red morph Python Island and C female L. mawe sp. nov. Python Island
D, E two males L. mawe sp. nov. Kissenda island and F female L. mawe sp. nov. Kissenda Island

G, H two males Labrochromis mawepili sp. nov. Makobe island and I female L. mawepili sp. nov. Makobe island.

 Labrochromis mawe sp. nov.

Etymology. Species name mawe from the Swahili word, for stone, referring to the habitat occupation of the species that is confined to rocks.

 Labrochromis mawepili sp. nov.

Etymology. Species name mawepili, from Swahili, mawe means stone and pili means second. Refers to similarity in habitat association between this species and L. mawe and the superficial resemblance with the latter.

Anna Mahulu and Ole Seehausen. 2025. Two New Cichlid Species of the Genus Labrochromis from Rocky Reefs of Lake Victoria, Tanzania (Perciformes, Cichlidae). ZooKeys 1240: 117-137. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1240.125699

Kentrocapros flavimaculatus

Matsuura, 2023

DOI: doi.org/10.50826/bnmnszool.49.4_191

Abstract

A new boxfish, Kentrocapros flavimaculatus, is described on the basis of two specimens collected from New Zealand. The new species is distinguished from all other species of Kentrocapros by the following combination of characters: many yellow spots on the lateral sides of the body, a distinct spine on the middle of each dorsolateral ridge of the carapace, no spines on the lateral and ventrolateral ridges, and the gill opening located below the posterior half of the eye.

Key words: boxfish, taxonomy, Kentrocapros flavimaculatus, distribution.

Holotype (A–C) and paratype (D) of Kentrocapros flavimaculatus n. sp.
Lateral (A), dorsal (B), and ventral (C) views of holotype (AIM MA180380, 62.7 mm SL), and lateral view of paratype (NSMT-P 43344, 114 mm SL).

Photographs of A–C, courtesy of AIM.

Kentrocapros flavimaculatus n. sp.

Keiichi Matsuura. 2023. A New Boxfish of the Genus Kentrocapros collected from New Zealand (Acanthopterygii, Tetraodontiformes, Aracanidae). Bull. Natl. Mus. Nat. Sci., Ser. A, 49(4); 191–196. DOI: doi.org/10.50826/bnmnszool.49.4_191 [November 22, 2023 ]

Ceraphron (Larsoceraphron) chularoipaad

Ghafouri Moghaddam, Salden & Butcher,

in Moghaddam, Salden, Latibari et Butcher, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jhr.98.151607

Abstract

The subgenus Larsoceraphron Dessart, 1981 of the genus Ceraphron Jurine, 1807 is reviewed, and a new species, Ceraphron (Larsoceraphron) chularoipaad sp. nov., from Thailand is described and illustrated. This represents the first species-level record of the genus Ceraphron in Thailand. Additionally, we provide the redescriptions and illustrations of three previously known species viz., C. (L.) huggerti, C. (L.) sylviae, and C. (L.) tobiasi. We also include two identification keys for all known subgenera of Ceraphron and species of the subgenus Larsoceraphron.

Keywords: Identification key, Oriental, redescription, species discovery, Taxonomy

Ceraphron (Larsoceraphron) chularoipaad sp. nov., female holotype from Thailand (CUMZ)
A habitus and antenna, lateral view B fore and hind wing C head, dorsofrontal view D head, lateral view E head, dorsal view F mesosoma, dorsal view G posterior mesosoma and anterior syntergum, dorsal view H syntergum, dorsal view I head and mesosoma, lateral view J metasoma, lateral view K posterior metasoma, dorsal view.

Ceraphron (Larsoceraphron) chularoipaad

Ghafouri Moghaddam, Salden & Butcher, sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet chularoipaad is derived from “Chula”, referring to Chulalongkorn University, and “roi paad”, which means “one hundred and eight” in Thai, commemorating the 108th anniversary of Chulalongkorn University in 2025. The name is treated as a noun in apposition.

Mostafa Ghafouri Moghaddam, Tobias Salden, Minoo Heidari Latibari and Buntika A. Butcher. 2025. Review of the Subgenus Larsoceraphron Dessart, 1981 of the Genus Ceraphron Jurine, 1807 (Hymenoptera, Ceraphronidae) with the Description of A New Species from Thailand. Journal of Hymenoptera Research. 98: 579-602. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/jhr.98.151607

Hyla dabieshanensis Zhang, Zhang & Zhang,

in C.-W. Zhang, Y. Zhang, Cai, Yu, Pang, Jiang, Ding, Gong et B.-W. Zhang, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2024.026

Abstract

Hyla tsinlingensis (Hu et al., 1966), is endemic to China, and is widely distributed in the Qinling and Dabie Mountains. Previous studies have suggested that genetic differentiation and geographical isolation exist between the Qinling Mountains population and Dabie Mountains population of H. tsinlingensis, and that the Dabie Mountains population is a cryptic species. Several Hyla specimens were collected from the Dabie Mountains of western Anhui Province, China during herpetological surveys from 2022‒2024; these specimens belonged to a species previously identified as H. tsinlingensis. Herein, we utilized phylogenetic analyses, morphological comparisons, and advertisement call comparisons, revealing significant differences from those of other known congeners; thus, we describe them as a new species. The discovery of this species implies that there are currently 18 identified species in the genus Hyla, 7 of which are found in China.

Keywords: Dabie Mountains, Hyla dabieshanensis sp. nov., Hyla tsinlingensis, Taxonomy, Morphology

Photographs of holotype AHUWFS001 of Hyla dabieshanensis sp. nov.
A: Right lateral view; B: Left lateral view; C: Dorsal view; D: Ventral view; E: Dorsal view of hand; F: Ventral view of hand; G: Dorsal view of foot; H: Ventral view of foot.

Scale bars equal to 10 mm. Photos by Cai-wen Zhang and Yong Zhang.

Hyla dabieshanensis sp. nov. Zhang, Zhang, and Zhang

Cai-Wen Zhang, Yong Zhang, Yin-Fan Cai, Lei Yu, Da-Peng Pang, Qing-Yue Jiang, Jun Ding, Da-Jie Gong, Bao-Wei Zhang. 2025. A New Species of the Genus Hyla (Amphibia: Anura: Hylidae) from the Dabie Mountains, Anhui, China. Zoological Research: Diversity and Conservation. 2(1): 42-54. DOI: doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2097-3772.2024.026

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