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[Botany • 2021] Hyptidendron pulcherrimum (Lamiaceae) • A New Narrowly Endemic Species from Minas Gerais, Brazil

February 1, 2021, 8:22 pm
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Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley

in Antar, Harley, ... et Sano, 2021.

Abstract
Hyptidendron Harley, one of the 19 genera recognized for the subtribe Hyptidinae, has some of its species with a narrow campos rupestres (a Brazilian vegetational formation) distribution, often restricted to a single mountain range. We report a new species, Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley, sp. nov., endemic to a single mountain in the Serra do Padre Ângelo, a disjunct area of campos rupestres from where some new angiosperm species have been recently described. The new species is unique due to the morphological combination of flowers arranged in dichasial cymes, indumentum composed of curved, rigid, broad-based hairs, leaves petiolate, glabrescent and bullate, corolla tomentose, with the tube curved, 7.5-10 mm long and one slightly winged nutlet per fruiting calyx. The new species is compared with Hyptidendron vauthieri (Briq.) Harley the most similar species morphologically. We also provide a complete description, diagnosis, illustration, distribution map with the new species and closely related species, a photograph plate, and a preliminary conservation status assessment.

KEYWORDS: Campos rupestres, Hyptis, Ocimeae, Serra do Padre Ângelo, new species

FIG. 2. — Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley, sp. nov.:
A, branch bearing leaves and inflorescences; B, leaf margin, adaxial surface with indumentum detail; C, leaf margin, abaxial surface with indumentum detail; D, immature cyme; E, part of an inflorescence showing calyx and bracteoles; F, flower, side view; G, corolla, side view; H, gynoecium and style, showing stylopodium; I, ovary; J, mature calyx; K, nutlet.
Illustration by Carla Teixeira de Lima based on Lopes et al. 453 (SPF). 
Scale bars: A, 3 cm; B, C, not to scale; D, 6 mm; E, 7 mm; F, 14 mm; G, 12 mm; H, I, 2.5 mm; J, 7.5 mm; k, 2 mm.


   

FIG. 3. — Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley, sp. nov.:
A, habit and habitat; B, flowering branch, highlighting a flower, side view; C, branch; D, flower and inflorescence; E, flowering branch.
Photo credits: A-C by P.M. Gonella; D, E by J.C. Lopes.

Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley, sp. nov. 

 The new species is unique in the genus by the combination of flowers arranged in dichasial cymes, branch indumentum pubescent composed of rigid, broad-based and curved eglandular hairs, leaves petiolate, glabrescent and bullate, corolla tomentose, curved, long exserted from calyx, with the tube 7.5-10 mm long and one slightly winged nutlet per fruiting calyx. The new species shares with Hyptidendron vauthieri (Briq.) Harley a similar inflorescence, habitat preference and habit, but differs as it has leaves glabrescent and deeply bullate (vs leaves pubescent to pilose and not deeply bullate), calyx lobes at fruit 0.9-1.4 mm long (vs calyx lobes at fruit 1.9-3.6 mm long), corolla curved with the tube 7.5-10 mm long (vs corolla straight with the tube 4.1-5.0 mm long), and nutlets slightly winged (vs nutlets not winged).

Etymology. — The specific epithet refers to the beauty of the new species, which presents remarkable conspicuous flowers and shining leaves, making it a potential species for ornamental use. 

Distribution, habitat and ecology. — Endemic to the Pico do Padre Ângelo, in the Serra do Padre Ângelo in Conselheiro Pena municipality, eastern Minas Gerais (Fig. 1). It grows at elevations from 1000 to 1530 m, in campos rupestres vegetation among quartzitic rock outcrops, in sandy soils covered by a litter layer. The species is especially abundant in the higher areas of the Pico do Padre Ângelo, above 1400 m, where it is usually associated with the rock outcrops. The Serra do Padre Ângelo region is subjected to a marked seasonality, with rainy summers and dry winters, but water condensation in the form of fog is present year-round at higher elevations.
 

Guilherme Medeiros Antar, Raymond Mervyn Harley, José Floriano Barêa Pastore, Paulo Minatel Gonella and Paulo Takeo Sano. 2021. Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley, sp. nov. (Hyptidinae, Lamiaceae), A New Narrowly Endemic Species from Minas Gerais, Brazil. Adansonia. 43(1);1-8. DOI: 10.5252/adansonia2021v43a1 

Hyptidendron pulcherrimum Antar & Harley, sp. nov. (Hyptidinae, Lamiaceae), une espèce nouvelle microendémique du Minas Gerais, au Brésil
Hyptidendron Harley, un des 19 genres reconnus pour la sous-tribu des Hyptidinae, présente, pour certaines de ses espèces, une distribution restreinte aux campos rupestres (une formation végétale brésilienne), souvent limitée à une seule chaîne de montagnes. Nous décrivonsune nouvelle espèce, Hyptidendron pulcherrimumAntar & Harley, sp. nov., endémique d’une seule montagne de la Serra do Padre Ângelo, une zone disjointe de campos rupestres, de laquelle quelques nouvelles espèces d’angiospermes ont été récemment décrites. La nouvelle espèce est unique en raison de la combinaison morphologique des fleurs disposées en cymes dichasiales, d’un indumentum composé de poils courbés, rigides et à large base, de feuilles pétiolées, glabres et bullées, d’une corolle tomenteuse, avec le tube courbé, 7,5-10 mm de long et un akène un peu ailé par le calice fructifère. La nouvelle espèce est comparée à Hyptidendron vauthieri (Briq.) Harley, l’espèce la plus similaire sur le plan morphologique. Nous fournissons également la description complète, la diagnose, l’illustration et une carte de répartition de la nouvelle espèce et des espèces étroitement apparentées. Une planche de photographies et une évaluation préliminaire de l’état de conservation sont également proposées.
MOTS-CLÉS: Campos rupestres, Hyptis, Ocimeae, Serra do Padre Ângelo, espèce nouvelle


   

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[Botany • 2021] A Monograph of the Genus Polhillia (Fabaceae: Genisteae)

February 2, 2021, 2:24 am
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Polhillia fortunata B.du Preez, sp. nov.
  Polhillia groenewaldii B.du Preez, sp. nov.  
 
Subgen. Roseopolhillia B.du Preez, subgen. nov.
Polhillia involucrata (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk & A.L.Schutte

in du Preez, Dreyer, Stirton et Muasya, 2021. 
 Scale bars: 4 mm. Photographs by B. du Preez


Highlights: 
• Four new species are described.
• Polhillia canescens synonymized under P. connata.
• Molecular phylogenetic reconstruction confirms monophyly of the genus.
• New monotypic subgenus described.
• Updated Red Data List status for all 11 Polhillia species.

Abstract
Polhillia is a small, but poorly known genus of legumes endemic to the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR) of South Africa. The genus was described three decades ago to accommodate species erroneously placed in Argyrolobium and other Cape legume genera. Polhillia is the third most threatened plant genus in South Africa, hence priority for taxonomic study and current knowledge on distribution patterns are essential for conservation interventions. Eight species were known at the start of this study, all of which are threatened with extinction. Species boundaries were, however, unclear and many Renosterveld fragments, in particular in the Overberg, required further exploration in pursuit of the various Polhillia species. The phylogenetic relationships among species and monophyly of the genus, especially regarding the position of the morphological aberrant P. involucrata, had not been tested. This study was built upon a foundation of widespread field sampling and analysis of herbarium specimens. Having considered morphological, anatomical, palynological and molecular data, we present an updated taxonomy of the genus Polhillia. Morphological characters between species were often obscure and unique characters were uncommon, as such species are recognized based on unique combinations of characters. Pollen and leaf anatomical studies did not provide substantial taxonomically informative characters, although some interspecific differences were noted. Molecular phylogenetic reconstructions confirm Polhillia to be monophyletic and sister to Argyrolobium, and that Argyrolobium may not be monophyletic. The morphologically distinct species, P. involucrata, is strongly supported as sister to the rest of the genus. Internal phylogenetic resolution in Polhillia is weak in many clades, due to the low variability among DNA markers studied, and several polytomies are still present. Based on the morphological and molecular evidence, we place P. involucrata in the new monotypic subgenus Roseopolhillia. Four new species are described (P. fortunata B.du Preez, P.groenewaldii B.du Preez, P. stirtoniana B.du Preez, P. xairuensis B.du Preez), and a previously recognized species (P. canescens C.H.Stirt.) is placed in synonymy under P. connata (Harv.) C.H.Stirt. Red data list assessments are provided for all species to highlight their conservation importance. Maps and compound colour plates are provided for each species.
 
Keywords: Polhillia, Cape flora, Conservation, Legumes, New species, Phylogeny, Taxonomy



Polhillia C.H.Stirt. subgen. Polhillia 
Type species: Polhillia obsoleta (Harv.) B.-E.van Wyk 
(=Polhillia waltersii (C.H.Stirt.) C.H.Stirt.)

Shrubs erect or spreading, sprouting from rootstock after fire; stipules 2, deltoid, sericeous, veins not visible, connate around base, sheathing stem, often persistent; leaves subsessile or petiolate in P. brevicalyx, pubescent, conduplicate (or flattened in P. ignota); flowers single, paired or in clusters (4–5 in P. brevicalyx, P. ignota and P. fortunata), subsessile or pseudo-pedunculate up to 15 mm long; flowers yellow, 8–13 mm long; calyx yellow-green, often flushed red, villous or sericeous; standard broadly ovate, apex emarginate, pubescent abaxially; wing petals variable in shape and sculpturing, mostly glabrous or pilose along midrib; keel petals variable in shape and level of pubescence, usually restricted to the fore edge; pistil green, sericeous or villous, ovules 7–12, style sub-erect to erect; fruit indehiscent, oblong, laterally compressed between seeds, plicate in P. ignota, P. obsoleta, P. groenewaldii, and P. fortunata, sericeous to glabrescent; seeds ovate-reniform, smooth, uniformly coloured, olive green to dark brown (except for P. connata and P. pallens that have occasional mottling).

 Species included: 
1. Polhillia brevicalyx (C.H.Stirt.) B.-E.van Wyk & A.L.Schutte
2. Polhillia connata (Harv.) C.H.Stirt.
3. Polhillia curtisiae C.H.Stirt. & Muasya
4. Polhillia fortunata B.du Preez
5. Polhillia groenewaldii B.du Preez
6. Polhillia ignota Boatwr.
7. Polhillia obsoleta (Harv.) B.-E.van Wyk
8. Polhillia pallens C.H.Stirt.
9. Polhillia stirtoniana B.du Preez
10. Polhillia xairuensis B.du Preez

 Etymology: The generic and subgeneric epithet Polhillia honours the renowned botanist and legume systematist Dr. Roger M. Polhill from the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew (Stirton. 1986a).


Fig. 20. Composite plate of Polhillia involucrata.
 1 – Inflorescence with pink flowers; 2 – Inflorescence with white flowers; 3 – Side view of inflorescence showing pink-flushed sepals; 4 – Calyx; 5 – Flower side view; 6 – Flower bottom view; 7 – Wing petals; 8 – Keel petal; 9 – Androecium; 10 – Gynoecium; 11 – Fruit; 12 – Dehiscent fruit on bush; 13 – Close-up of leaves and stipules; 14 – Habit.
Scale bars: 4 mm. Photographs by B. du Preez

Fig. 20. Composite plate of Polhillia involucrata.
1 – Inflorescence with pink flowers; 2 – Inflorescence with white flowers;
3 – Side view of inflorescence showing pink-flushed sepals;12 – Dehiscent frfrfruit on bush;
 13 – Close-up of leaves and stipules; 14 – Habit.
Scale bars: 4 mm. Photographs by B. du Preez

Polhillia C.H.Stirt. Subgen. RoseopolhilliaB.du Preez, subgen. nov.
 
Type species: Polhillia involucrata (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk & A.L.Schutte,
 Kew Bulletin 44: 3 (1989).

Shrubs erect, sprouting from rootstock after fire; stipules 2, deltoid-oblong, glabrous abaxially, villous adaxially with three prominent veins, connate around base, sheathing stem, often persistent; leaves digitately trifoliolate, shortly petiolate, glabrous or rarely sparsely hairy, conduplicate; inflorescence terminal, flowers in clusters of 2–5, subsessile, surrounded by enlarged stipules; flowers rose pink or rarely white, 10–12 mm long; calyx with trifid ventral lip, sparsely pilose, green, often flushed maroon; standard broadly elliptic to ovate, apex emarginate, pubescent only along abaxial midrib; wing petals broadly oblong with lamellate sculpturing along most part of dorsal half; keel petals lunate, pilose along ventral fore edge; stamens 10, monadelphous with single dorsal slit, filaments fused for most of their length, anthers alternating between long and short; pistil sericeous, variable in length, ovules 7, style sub-erect, stigma regular, capitate; fruit dehiscent, pale cream-brown, oblong, laterally compressed between seeds, sericeous; seeds ovate-squared, smooth, dark-brown to mottled pale-orange.

 Species included:Polhillia involucrata (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk & A.L.Schutte.

  Etymology: The subgeneric epithet Roseopolhillia was chosen to highlight the distinct and diagnostic rose pink coloured flowers unique to Polhillia species.


   

 Polhillia fortunata B.du Preez, sp. nov.  1 – Flower front view; 3 – Flower bottom view; 9 – Close-up of leaves and stipules; 11 – Habit.  
 Polhillia groenewaldii B.du Preez, sp. nov. 1 – Flower front view; 2 – Flower side view; 9 – Fruit; 10 – Habit.  

Polhillia stirtoniana B.du Preez, sp. nov. 1 – Flower front view; 2 – Flower side view; 8 – Fruit; 9 – Close-up of recurved leaves and stipules; 10 – Habit. 
Polhillia xairuensis B.du Preez, sp. nov. 1 – Flower front view; 2 – Flower side view; 9 – Leaves and stipules; 10 – Close-up of leaf; 11 – Habit. 
 Scale bars: 4 mm. Photographs by B. du Preez


Polhillia fortunata B.du Preez, sp. nov.  1 – Flower front view; 3 – Flower bottom view; 9 – Close-up of leaves and stipules; 11 – Habit. Scale bars: 4 mm. 
 Polhillia groenewaldii B.du Preez, sp. nov. 1 – Flower front view; 2 – Flower side view; 9 – Fruit; 10 – Habit. Scale bars: 4 mm. 
 Scale bars: 4 mm. Photographs by B. du Preez

Polhillia fortunata B.du Preez

 Etymology: The specific epithet is a direct translation from Latin meaning “lucky”. This epithet was selected as the discovery of this species was fortuitous. The area in which this species occurs was burnt in a massive fire for the first time in nearly 100 years in February 2018, allowing profusion of resprouting shrubs to be visible from the road in what was previously near-senescent Renosterveld vegetation.


Polhillia groenewaldii B.du Preez

Etymology: The specific epithet “groenewaldii” honours Mr Jannie Groenewald who first discovered this species and brought it to our attention. This honours the incredible work he has done in increasing our knowledge of new species and also new populations of threatened species in the Overberg region. This is also in recognition of the tremendous help he provided during fieldwork conducted for this study.


Polhillia stirtoniana B.du Preez, sp. nov. 1 – Flower front view; 2 – Flower side view; 8 – Fruit; 9 – Close-up of recurved leaves and stipules; 10 – Habit. 
Polhillia xairuensis B.du Preez, sp. nov. 1 – Flower front view; 2 – Flower side view; 9 – Leaves and stipules; 10 – Close-up of leaf; 11 – Habit.
 Scale bars: 4 mm. Photographs by B. du Preez
    
Polhillia stirtoniana B.du Preez

Etymology: The specific epithet honours Prof. Charles Howard Stirton for his extensive work on Cape legumes and his late wife, Dr Jana Stirton (Born Žantovská) who shared his love and passion for the diversity and conservation of the Overberg Renosterveld. They assisted in the formation of the Overberg Renosterveld Conservation Trust and establishment of the Haarwegskloof Private Nature Reserve and research centre. Prof. Stirton has significantly mentored the first author in his development as botanist.


Polhillia xairuensis B.du Preez

Etymology: The specific epithet is derived from the Hessequa Khoi name for the Suurbraak area, namely “!Xairu” which means ‘Beauty’ or ‘A place called Paradise’, referring to the beautiful nature of the area (Fourie, 2013). Pronunciation of the epithet can be with or without a click. Although much of the area has now been transformed for agriculture, the Langeberg Mountains above the town of Suurbraak remain scenic and lowland vegetation fragments hold beautiful floral gems such as this Polhillia species.


  B. du Preez, L. L. Dreyer, C. H. Stirton and A. M. Muasya. 2021. A Monograph of the Genus Polhillia (Genisteae: Fabaceae).  South African Journal of Botany. 138; 156-183. DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2020.12.022 
 
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[PaleoOrnithology • 2020] Crosnoornis nargizia • A New Passeriform (Aves: Passeriformes) from the early Oligocene of Poland sheds light on the Beginnings of Suboscines

February 2, 2021, 2:52 am
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 Crosnoornis nargizia 
Bochenski, Tomek, Bujoczek & Salwa, 2021

 
Abstract
The paper describes a complete specimen of a passerine bird from the early Oligocene of Poland, preserved as imprints of bones and feathers on two slabs.Crosnoornis nargizia gen. et sp. nov. is just the fifth passerine species described from the Paleogene worldwide and the fourth complete. The features preserved in the distal elements of the wing exclude Acanthisittidae and Oscines and indicate that this bird can be included in Suboscines, making it the second complete representative of this group in the Paleogene. A strong, straight beak indicates that this bird could feed on a variety of foods, including hard seeds, fruit and invertebrates, and, therefore, occupied a different foraging niche than the Oligocene passerines described so far. The wing proportions, a very short tail and relatively long legs indicate that this bird spent most of its time in the forest, close to the ground in dense shrubs or dense tree crowns.

Keywords: Fossil birds, Passeriformes, Suboscines, New species, Rupelian, Paleogene


 Crosnoornis nargizia gen. et sp. nov., holotype, specimen MSFK RR 01/2013a + b from Rudawka Rymanowska, exposure 01, Poland, early Oligocene (left) and interpretative drawings (right) with only the main skeletal elements indicated.
a slab A; b slab B. Left (L) and right (R) elements are indicated.
 Abbreviations: cmc carpometacarpus, cor coracoid, d1-d4 digit 1–4, fem femur, hum humerus, pal phalanx digiti alulae, pdm phalanx distalis digiti majoris, pmi phalanx digiti minoris, ppm phalanx proximalis digiti majoris, qu quadratum, rad radius, scap scapula, tbt tibiotarsus, tmt tarsometatarsus, tr tracheal rings, vr vertebrae


 
Aves Linnaeus 1758
Passeriformes Linnaeus 1758
Suboscines (sensu Ericson et al. 2003)

Family indeterminate

Genus Crosnoornis gen.nov.
Type species Crosnoornis nargizia sp. nov.

Etymology: The genus name Crosno is the Latin equivalent of the Polish Krosno, a town located nearby the type locality, Rudawka Rymanowska, added to the Ancient Greek ὄρνις (ornis) meaning “bird”.


Crosnoornis nargizia gen. et sp. nov.

Etymology: The species is named after Nargiz Salwa, the wife of the finder and co-author of this paper, Grzegorz Salwa.

Holotype: MSFK RR 01/2013a + b (Figs. 1, 2, S1–S7), complete articulated skeleton preserved on two slabs, deposited at the Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, PAS, Kraków, Poland.

 
Zbigniew M. Bochenski, Teresa Tomek, Małgorzata Bujoczek and Grzegorz Salwa. 2021. A New Passeriform (Aves: Passeriformes) from the early Oligocene of Poland sheds light on the Beginnings of Suboscines. Journal of Ornithology.  DOI: 10.1007/s10336-021-01858-0


Zusammenfassung:Ein neuer Sperlingsvogel (Aves: Passeriformes) aus dem frühen Oligozän Polens erhellt die Ursprünge der Suboscines
Diese Arbeit beschreibt ein vollständiges Exemplar eines Sperlingsvogels aus dem frühen Oligozän Polens, welches als Abdruck von Knochen und Federn auf zwei Steinplatten erhalten ist. Crosnoornis nargizia gen. et sp. nov. ist weltweit erst die fünfte für das Paläogen beschriebene Sperlingsvogelart und erst die vierte vollständig erhaltene. Die im distalen Flügelteil erhaltenen Merkmale schließen die Acanthisittidae und die Oscines aus und sind Indizien dafür, dass dieser Vogel zu den Suboscines gerechnet werden kann, was ihn zum zweiten vollständig erhaltenen Vertreter dieser Gruppe aus dem Paläogen macht. Ein kräftiger gerader Schnabel deutet darauf hin, dass dieser Vogel ein breitgefächertes Nahrungsspektrum nutzen konnte, darunter harte Samen, Früchte und Wirbellose, und daher eine andere Nahrungsnische besetzte als die bislang beschriebenen Sperlingsvögel des Oligozäns. Die Proportionen des Flügels, ein sehr kurzes Steuer und relativ lange Beine sind Anzeichen dafür, dass dieser Vogel die meiste Zeit im Wald verbrachte, entweder in dichtem Gebüsch in Bodennähe oder in dichten Baumkronen.

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[Herpetology • 2021] Phylogenetic Relationships of the Boana pulchella Group (Anura: Hylidae)

February 2, 2021, 7:21 pm
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in Faivovich, Pinheiro, Lyra, ... et Haddad, 2021. 

 Highlights: 
• The monophyly of the Boana pulchella Group is corroborated.
• Five well-supported major clades are recognized.
• The relationships among the early diverging species are weakly supported.
• Five currently recognized species are considered synonyms of other species.

Abstract
In this paper we present a phylogenetic analysis of the treefrogs of the Boana pulchella Group with the goals of (1) providing a rigorous test of its monophyly; (2) providing a test of relationships supported in previous studies; and (3) exploring the relationships of the several species not included in previous analyses. The analyses included>300 specimens of 37 of the 38 species currently included in the group, plus 36 outgroups, exemplars of the diversity of Boana and the other genera of the hylid tribe Cophomantini. The dataset included eight mitochondrial genes (12S, 16S, CytB, COI, ND1, tRNAIle, tRNALeu, and tRNAVal) and five nuclear genes (RHO, TYR, RAG-1, CXCR4, SIAH1). The phylogenetic analyses recover the monophyly of the B. pulchella Group with lower support than previous studies, as a result of the inclusion of the B. claresignata Group, which is recovered as its sister taxon. Within the B. pulchella Group, the inclusion of almost all species of the group had little impact on previous notions of its phylogeny, except for the rejection of the hypothesized B. polytaenia Clade (B. goiana and B. phaeopleura are nested in the clade here called the B. prasina Clade), which is redefined. Phylogenetic support is strong for five major clades, which collectively include all but three of the species sampled: the B. balzani Clade (B. aguilari, B. balzani, B. gladiator, B. melanopleura, B. palaestes), the redefined B. polytaenia Clade (B. botumirim, B. buriti, B. cipoensis, B. jaguariaivensis, B. leptolineata, B. polytaenia, B. stenocephala, and two undescribed species), the B. prasina Clade (B. bischoffi, B. caingua, B. cordobae, B. goiana, B. guentheri, B. marginata, B. phaeopleura, B. prasina, B. pulchella, and one undescribed species), the B. riojana Clade (B. callipleura, B. marianitae, B. riojana), and the B. semiguttata Clade (B. caipora, B. curupi, B. joaquini, B. poaju, B. semiguttata, B. stellae, and two undescribed species). The monophyly of the B. prasina + B. riojana Clades, and that of the B. polytaenia + B. semiguttata Clades are well-supported. The relationships among these two clades, the B. balzani Clade, B. ericae + B. freicanecae, and B. cambui (representing the deepest phylogenetic splits within the B. pulchella Group) are recovered with weak support. We discuss the phenotypic evidence supporting the monophyly of the B. pulchella Group, and the taxonomy of several species, identifying three new synonyms of Boana polytaenia, one new synonym of Boana goiana, and one new synonym of B. riojana.
 
Keywords: Hylidae, Hylinae, Cophomantini, Systematics, Taxonomy, Neotropics





Conclusions: 
The present study complements previous analyses and nearly exhausts the taxonomic sampling of the B. pulchella Group, allowing us to recognize five major clades (the B. balzani, B. polytaenia, B. pulchella, B. riojana, B. semiguttata Clades). However, far from being definitive, our results point to a number of weak areas in our knowledge of the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomy of the group. This is exemplified by the lack of support for relationships at various levels, such as some of the major clades or among species in the B. polytaenia Clade. As a result of our study, five new junior synonyms are recognized: B. bandeirantes (Caramaschi and Cruz, 2013), B. beckeri (Caramaschi and Cruz, 2004), and B. latistriata (Caramaschi and Cruz, 2004), are junior synonyms of B. polytaenia (Cope, 1870); B. phaeopleura (Caramaschi and Cruz, 2000) is a junior synonym of B. goiana (B. Lutz, 1968); and B. albonigra (Nieden, 1923) is a junior synonym of B. riojana (Koslowsky, 1895). These synonymies reduce the number of valid species included in the group from 38 to 33. However, at least other five species remain to be described. The taxonomy of some species, such as those included in the B. balzani and B. polytaenia Clades, remains challenging. Furthermore, the recent discovery of B. cambui (Pinheiro et al., 2016), the new species included in this study, and those revealed by our results, indicate that the areas encompassed by the broad distribution of this species group are still far from adequately sampled.

 
Julian Faivovich, Paulo D.P. Pinheiro, Mariana L. Lyra, Martín O. Pereyra, Diego Baldo, Arturo Muñoz, Steffen Reichle, Reuber A. Brandão, Ariovaldo A. Giaretta, Maria Tereza C. Thomé, Juan C .Chaparro, Délio Baêta, Ronaldo Libardi Widholzer, Jorge Baldo, Edgar Lehr, Ward C. Wheeler, Paulo C. A. Garcia and Célio F.B. Haddad. 2021.  Phylogenetic Relationships of the Boana pulchella Group (Anura: Hylidae). Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. 155, 106981. DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2020.106981
  twitter.com/PDP_Pinheiro/status/1356320273109311488

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[Herpetology • 2021] Phylogenetic Analyses of Distantly Related Clades of Bent-toed Geckos (Genus Cyrtodactylus) reveal An Unprecedented Amount of Cryptic Diversity in northern and western Thailand

February 2, 2021, 11:30 pm
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in Chomdej, Pradit, Suwannapoom, ... et Gong, 2021. 

Abstract 
Cyrtodactylus species are the most diverse of the geckos and are widely distributed in Southeast Asia, including Thailand. However, their patterns of distribution, especially in northern and western parts of Thailand, remain unknown because few Cyrtodactylus species in these regions have been described. Thus, a data set of mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 2 (ND2) gene and flanking tRNAs from Cyrtodactylus found in northern and western Thailand, including contiguous areas, was assembled to elucidate phylogenetic relationships and identify the distribution patterns of these geckos. The results showed four well-supported clades, a northwestern clade (A), a northern clade (B), a western clade (C), and a special clade characterized by specific morphological features (D). Clades A–C were grouped with strong support by the geography of their localities from northern Thailand (Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai Provinces) along the Tenasserim mountain ranges to Phang-Nga Province, Thailand. Clade D is a distinct clade of Cyrtodactylus species characterized by a tuberculate and prehensile tail and distributed widely in mainland Southeast Asia. Overall, the results suggest a pattern of geographic separation and distribution of Cyrtodactylus in northern and western Thailand. Additionally, this study provides evidence of a hidden biodiversity of Cyrtodactylus in these regions.


Representatives of the four main clades of Cyrtodactylus from northern and western Thailand:
Cyrtodactylus inthanon from Clade A (photo by N. Poyarkov)
Cyrtodactylus sp. from Clade B (photo by N. Poyarkov)
Cyrtodactylus saiyok from Clade C (photo by P. Pawangkhanant)
Cyrtodactylus interdigitalisfrom Clade D (photo by N. Poyarkov)




Conclusion: 
The phylogeny presented in this study illustrates the relationship and distribution of Cyrtodactylus species in northern and western Thailand. Four clades of Cyrtodactylus were recovered: a northwestern clade (clade A), a northern clade (clade B), a western clade (clade C), and a special clade (clade D). Clade A distributed from the Salween Basin in Myanmar to the Thanon Thong Chai mountain range in northern Thailand and was grouped with the “sinyineensis group”. Clade B was found to disperse in major mountain ranges of northern Thailand, including the Thanon Thong Chai, Daen Lao, and Khun Tan ranges. Clade C radiated along the Tenasserim Range from Kanchanaburi Province to Phang-Nga Province. Clade D was unique among the four clades in that Cyrtodactylus in this clade were grouped based on their tuberculate and prehensile tails, and were distributed widely in mainland Southeast Asia. The present phylogeny will be a useful guide for the identification or description of many unknown Cyrtodactylus species, especially from northern and western Thailand. The results also raise the possibility of analysis of other aspects of Cyrtodactylus species, such as their evolution, ecomorphology, and phylogenetic endemism. Finally, this study implies a hidden biodiversity of Cyrtodactylus in northern and western Thailand.
 

 Siriwadee Chomdej, Waranee Pradit, Chatmongkon Suwannapoom, Parinya Pawangkhanant, Korakot Nganvongpanit, Nikolay A. Poyarkov, Jing Che, Yangchun Gao and Shiping Gong. 2021. Phylogenetic Analyses of Distantly Related Clades of Bent-toed Geckos (Genus Cyrtodactylus) reveal An Unprecedented Amount of Cryptic Diversity in northern and western Thailand. Scientific Reports. 11: 2328. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70640-8 
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[Botany • 2021] Eriobotrya shanense (Rosaceae) • A New Broad-leaved Species of Loquat from eastern Myanmar and Its Phylogenetic Affinity in the Genus Eriobotrya

February 3, 2021, 1:19 am
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Eriobotrya shanense D.H. Kang, H.G. Ong & Y.D. Kim

in Kang, Ong, Lee, ... et Kim, 2021. 

Abstract
Eriobotrya shanense, a new species from the karst region of Shan State, eastern Myanmar, is described and illustrated. This evergreen tree is similar to the autumn and winter-flowering, large-leaved species E. malipoensis and E. japonica by having tomentose hairs on the abaxial leaf surface, but can be distinguished by its obovate, widely obelliptic or oval blade shape, leaf length-width ratio of 2:1 (vs. 3:1), and rounded or obtuse apex (vs. acute). The species also resembles less-known, undercollected Myanmar broad-leaved species E. wardii and E. platyphylla in leaf shape and length-width ratio, but can be easily differentiated by the presence of tomentose hairs on the leaves, and inflorescence. Phylogenetic analysis based on nrDNA ITS region supported its close affinity with E. malipoensis and E. japonica. Molecular data also generally grouped the 17 congeneric taxa accessions in congruence to their leaf morphology, with the entire Eriobotrya clade strongly supported to be monophyletic and separate from Rhaphiolepis.

Keywords: ITS, limestone karst, Panlaung Pyadalin Cave Wildlife Sanctuary, phylogeny, Shan State

Eriobotrya shanense D.H. Kang, H.G. Ong & Y.D. Kim
A. Flowering branch B. Leaf blade C–D. Stipules E. Bract F–G. Flower abaxial and adaxial view H–I. Petals J. Flower longitudinal section showing the androecium and gynoecium K. Stamen L. Styles and exposed ovary M. Ovary cross section N. Fruiting branch O–P. Fruit cross and longitudinal section. A–M. from Kim et al. MM-6026 (holotype HHU). Illustration by Ye-Seul Jang.

Eriobotrya shanense D.H. Kang, H.G. Ong & Y.D. Kim.
A. Habitat B. Stipule and petiole C. Inflorescence D. Flower E. Petals (base not clawed) F. Fruiting branch.
 
Eriobotrya shanense D.H. Kang, H.G. Ong & Y.D. Kim, sp. nov. 

Type:— MYANMAR. Southern Shan State, Ywangan Township, N21° 14’ ...” E96° 25’ ...”, elev. 1,422 m, 01 Jan. 2017, Kim et al. MM-6026 (holotype HHU barcode 880000016009; isotypes HHU barcode 880000016016, KB barcode 880000016023, RAF barcode 880000016030). 

Diagnosis:— Leaf morphology of Eriobotrya shanense is similar to that of E. malipoensis and E. japonica by having tomentose hairs on the abaxial surface of its blade but can be differentiated by its obovate, widely obelliptic or oval blade shape, its length-width ratio of 2:1 (vs. 3:1), and rounded or obtuse apex (vs. acute). The species also resembles less-known, undercollected Myanmar broad-leaved species E. wardii and E. platyphylla in leaf shape and length-width ratio, but can be easily differentiated by the presence of tomentose hairs on the leaves and inflorescence.
 See Table 1 for a detailed comparison. 

Etymology:— Eriobotrya shanense is named after its type locality, Shan State in eastern Myanmar.

Distribution and habitat:— Eriobotrya shanense is known to be narrowly distributed in its type locality, Ywangan Township in southern Shan State. So far, two populations have been found, one consisting of not less than 10 fullgrown trees, and the other of ca. 20 mature and juvenile individuals. The tree grows on slopes of irregularly rocky limestone karst hills, along with Firmiana kerri (Craib) Kostermans (1961: 389), Sterculia villosa Roxburgh (1832: 153, 154), Wightia speciosissima (D. Don) Merrill (1938: 67), Bauhinia variegata Linnaeus (1753: 375), Ceratostigma asperrimum Stapf ex Prain (1906: 6, 7), and Trichodesma calycosum Collett & Hemsley (1890: 92, 93).


Dae-Hyun Kang, Homervergel G. Ong, Jung-Hoon Lee, Eui-Kwon Jung, Naing-Oo Kyaw, Qiang Fan and Young-Dong Kim. 2021. A New Broad-leaved Species of Loquat from eastern Myanmar and Its Phylogenetic Affinity in the Genus Eriobotrya (Rosaceae).  Phytotaxa. 482(3); 279–290. DOI:  10.11646/phytotaxa.482.3.6


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[Herpetology • 2021] Stegonotus aplini • A Striking New Species of Papuan Groundsnake (Stegonotus: Colubridae) from southern Papua New Guinea, with A Dichotomous Key to the Genus in New Guinea

February 3, 2021, 6:22 pm
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Stegonotus aplini 
 O'Shea & Richards, 2021


Abstract
We describe a new species of groundsnake of the genus Stegonotus (Colubridae) from the Purari River basin in Gulf Province, Papua New Guinea. The new species can be most readily distinguished from all other New Guinean Stegonotus by its unique dorsal colour pattern which consists of a dark head and creamy-white anterior one third to two thirds of the body, grading into increasingly dense dark pigmentation on the posterior of the body and tail. It is most similar to S. iridis from the Raja Ampat Archipelago off western New Guinea, but that species has a different pattern of pigmentation dorsally, has a lower ventral scale count (198–211 vs. 229–239), and exhibits a different temporal scale arrangement. The description of Stegonotus aplini sp. nov. brings to fourteen the number of Stegonotus species described from New Guinea. A dichotomous key to described species in the New Guinea region is provided.

Keywords: Reptilia, Serpentes, Colubrinae, snake, Purari River, Gulf Province, taxonomy, dichotomous key



 Mark O'Shea and Stephen J. Richards. 2021. A Striking New Species of Papuan Groundsnake (Stegonotus: Colubridae) from southern Papua New Guinea, with A Dichotomous Key to the Genus in New Guinea.  Zootaxa. 4926(1); 26–42. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4926.1.2

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[Herpetology • 2021] Agama wachirae • A New Species of the Agama lionotus Boulenger, 1896 Complex (Squamata: Agamidae) from northern Kenya

February 3, 2021, 6:40 pm
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 Agama wachirae 
Malonza, Spawls, Finch & Bauer, 2021


Abstract
Kenya has a high diversity of agamid lizards and the arid northern frontier area has the highest species richness. Among the Kenyan agama species, Agama lionotus has the widest distribution, occurring from sea level to inland areas in both dry and moist savanna as well as desert areas. This species mostly prefers rocky areas, both in granitic/metamorphic and volcanic rocks, although it also makes use of tree crevices as well as man-made structures. Recently in Marsabit, northern Kenya, a small-sized agama species, distinct from A. lionotus, was collected within a rocky lava desert area. This new species is characterized by its small size (mean SVL ~83 mm) as compared to typical A. lionotus (mean SVL ~120 mm). Past studies have shown the value of adult male throat coloration for the identification of species within the A. lionotus complex. Herein we also highlight female dorsal color pattern, which is a key character for distinguishing the new species from others in the group, including the similar A. hulbertorum. As in A. lionotus, displaying adult males have an orange to yellow head, a vertebral stripe, a bluish body coloration and an annulated white/blue tail. But the most diagnostic character is the coloration of females and non-displaying males, which exhibit a series of regular pairs of dark spots along the vertebrae as far posterior as the tail base. In addition, females have a pair of elongated orange or yellow marks on the shoulders and another on the dorsolateral margins of the abdomen. This study shows that more cryptic species in the Agama lionotus complex may still await discovery. The new species was found inhabiting dark desert lava rocks but should additionally be present in suitably similar sites in the northern frontier area. This underscores the need to re-examine populations of Agama lionotus from different microhabitats in this country.

Keywords: Reptilia, Agama lionotus complex, Agamidae, cryptic species, rock outcrops, Marsabit



 Agama wachirae 
Marsabit Rock Agama


Patrick K. Malonza, Stephen Spawls, Brian Finch and Aaron M. Bauer. 2021. A New of Species of the Agama lionotus Boulenger, 1896 Complex (Squamata: Agamidae) from northern Kenya. Zootaxa. 4920(4); 543–553. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4920.4.5
 
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[Herpetology • 2021] Heyerus bilineatus • A New Terraranan Genus (Anura: Craugastoridae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest with Comments on the Systematics of Brachycephaloidea

February 3, 2021, 7:10 pm
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Heyerus bilineatus (Bokermann, 1975)

 Heyerus Motta, Taucce, Haddad & Canedo 
in Motta, Taucce, Haddad & Canedo, 2021.
 

Abstract
“Eleutherodactylus” bilineatus has long been an enigma. Recent phylogenetic analyses have recovered this species as part of a clade including Barycholos and Noblella, but the relationship among these groups still remains contentious. In this study, we test the phylogenetic position and reassess the taxonomic status of this long‐term incertae sedis species. We use phylogenetic analyses of nuclear and mitochondrial gene sequences and data for external morphology and osteology of “E.” bilineatus and its related genera. We recover the species as an independent lineage forming a fully supported clade with Barycholos and Noblella. The combination of inferred relationships and morphological traits supports the erection of a new genus that we name and diagnose. Our analyses also recover a non‐monophyletic Noblella and the species of the genus, although morphologically similar, are part of different clades: one including species from central Andes and the other one including species from northern Andes. Moreover, distribution patterns point out connections among distant biogeographical areas of South America and a widespread distribution of an ancestor for the clade including Barycholos, “E.” bilineatus, and Noblella. We also compare the relationships among clades of Brachycephaloidea and, hence, the family and subfamily classifications in different studies. We show that the family classification is probably far from becoming stable, mostly due to arbitrary selections of hierarchy of the clades. However, we show that by assigning a family to each of the highly supported and frequently recovered clades would render a more stable taxonomy of Brachycephaloidea.

Keywords: Barycholos, Eleutherodactylus bilineatus, Noblella, phylogeny taxonomy




Order Anura Oppel, 1811

Superfamily Brachycephaloidea Günther, 1858
Family Craugastoridae Hedges et al., 2008
Subfamily Holoadeninae Hedges et al., 2008

Eleutherodactylus bilineatus Bokermann, 1975
Eleutherodactylus (Eleutherodactylus) bilineatus: Lynch & Duellman, 1997
Ischnocnema bilineata: Heinicke et al., 2007
“Eleutherodactylus” bilineatus: Canedo & Haddad, 2012

Heyerus bilineatus: New Genus

Genus Heyerus Motta, Taucce, Haddad & Canedo New Genus
 
Type species: Heyerus bilineatus (Bokermann, 1975) 
by original designation (Figure 2).

Etymology: The specific epithet is used as a noun in the genitive case and honors Dr. W. Ronald Heyer for his invaluable contributions on systematics, evolution, and biogeography of Neotropical amphibians.


Ana Paula Motta, Pedro Paulo Goulart Taucce, Célio Fernando Baptista Haddad and Clarissa Canedo. 2021. A New Terraranan Genus from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest with Comments on the Systematics of Brachycephaloidea (Amphibia: Anura). Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research.  DOI: 10.1111/jzs.12452
 
Researchgate.net/publication/348995223_A_new_terraranan_genus_from_the_Brazilian_Atlantic_forest_with_comments_on_the_Systematics_of_Brachycephaloidea_Amphibia_Anura
  twitter.com/PedroTaucce/status/1356942877708980226

 “Eleutherodactylus” bilineatus has long been an enigma, and its relationship with other terraranan still remains contentious. We test the phylogenetic position and reassess the taxonomic status of this long‐term incertae sedis species. The combination of inferred relationships and morphological traits supports the erection of a new genus that we name and diagnose. Distribution patterns point out connections among distant biogeographical areas of South America and a widespread distribution of an ancestor for Barycholos, Heyerus gen. nov., and Noblella Northern Clade.

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[Ornithology • 2020] Tongoenas burleyi • A New Genus and Species of Pigeon (Aves, Columbidae) from the Kingdom of Tonga, with An Evaluation of Hindlimb Osteology of Columbids from Oceania

February 3, 2021, 7:22 pm
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Tongoenas burleyi 
Steadman & Takano, 2020
 

Abstract
The region from New Guinea through Oceania sustains the world’s most diverse set of columbids. We describe osteological characters of the hindlimb (femur, tibiotarsus, tarsometatarsus) that divide the Papuan-Oceanic pigeons and doves into three groups based on functional morphology: “arboreal” (Hemiphaga, Ducula, Ptilinopus, Drepanoptila, Gymnophaps), “intermediate” (Columba, Macropygia, Reinwardtoena), and “terrestrial” (Gallicolumba [includes Alopecoenas], Trugon, Microgoura, Goura, Chalcophaps, Geopelia, Henicophaps, Caloenas, Didunculus, Otidiphaps). The arboreal and terrestrial groups are each distinctive osteologically, especially in the tibiotarsus and tarsometatarsus, which are short relative to the femur in the arboreal group, and long relative to the femur in the terrestrial group. The intermediate pigeons are more similar to arboreal than to terrestrial pigeons, but nonetheless fit in neither group. To estimate the phylogenetic relationships among or within these three groups is somewhat tentative using hindlimb osteology alone, although all five genera of arboreal pigeons have independent molecular evidence of relatedness, as do most of the genera of terrestrial pigeons.

                Using the hindlimb and other osteological data as a framework, we describe a new extinct genus and species of pigeon, Tongoenas burleyi, from Holocene archaeological and Pleistocene paleontological sites on six islands (Foa, Lifuka, `Uiha, Ha`afeva, Tongatapu, and `Eua) in the Kingdom of Tonga. Tongoenas was a large-sized member of the “arboreal” pigeon group, with osteological characters that relate it to Ducula, Gymnophaps, and Hemiphaga (generally canopy frugivores) rather than with the “terrestrial” pigeons (more ground-dwelling and granivorous) such as Gallicolumba, Trugon, Microgoura, Goura, etc. (others listed above). Among volant columbids, living or extinct, only the species of Goura (from New Guinea) are larger than Tongoenas. From most of the same prehistoric sites, we also report new material of the nearly as large, extinct pigeon Ducula shutleri Worthy & Burley, recently described from islands in the Vava`u Group of Tonga. Thus, D. shutleri also was widespread in Tonga before human impact. The prehistoric anthropogenic loss in Tonga of Tongoenas burleyi, Ducula shutleri, and other columbids undoubtedly had a negative impact on the dispersal regimes of Tongan forest trees. At first human contact about 2850 years ago, at least nine species of columbids in six genera inhabited the Tongan islands, where only four species in three genera exist today.

Keywords: Aves, Columbids, pigeons, doves, fossils, osteology, biogeography, extinction, Tonga, Oceania




Systematic Paleontology
Order Columbiformes
Family Columbidae

Tongoenas burleyi new genus and species

 Etymology. The name Tongoenas derives from combining Tonga (a Polynesian name for the island group where the pigeon once lived) with the Greek word oenas (feminine; a wild pigeon; Brown 1956:278). The species name burleyi is to honor archaeologist David V. Burley, whose many excavations of prehistoric sites in Tonga, including most of the sites that have produced specimens of Tongoenas, have yielded abundant materials of great cultural and biological importance.


 
David W. Steadman and Oona M. Takano. 2020. A New Genus and Species of Pigeon (Aves, Columbidae) from the Kingdom of Tonga, with An Evaluation of Hindlimb Osteology of Columbids from Oceania. Zootaxa. 4810(3); 401–420. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4810.3.1

 Giant, fruit-gulping pigeon eaten into extinction on Pacific islands

   


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[Botany • 2020] Prionosciadium tamayoi (Apiaceae) • A New Species from western Mexico

February 13, 2021, 11:24 pm
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Prionosciadium tamayoi  Cuevas et N. M. Núñez

in Cuevas-Guzmán, Núñez-López, et al., 2020. 

Prionosciadium tamayoi is described as new species for science. The species is separated from those known within the genus for its linear, and entire or crenate foliar divisions, its small fruits and coral red-coloured flowers. Information on its habitat is provided and its morphological characters are illustrated. In addition, the new species is compared with the most related taxa.

Keywords: Arracacia clade; Endemism; Perennial herb; Sierra of Cuale; Limestone soils; Umbelliferae.



Prionosciadium tamayoi Cuevas et N. M. Núñez, sp. nov.  

 Etimología. La especie se nombra en honor del maestro Roberto González Tamayo, uno de los mejores conocedores y recolectores de orquídeas en el occidente de México, con cientos de ellas recogidas en la sierra de Cuale, lugar donde aún se le recuerda por los pobladores como el “señor de los lirios”.  

Etymology. The species is named in honor of the teacher Roberto González Tamayo, one of the best orchid specialist and collectors in the west of Mexico, with hundreds of them collected in the Sierra de Cuale, a place where it is still remembered by the inhabitants as the "señor de los lirios - Lord of the Lilies."


Ramón Cuevas-Guzmán, Nora M. Núñez-López, Susana Canales-Piña and José Guadalupe Morales-Arias. 2020. Prionosciadium tamayoi (Apiaceae), A New Species from western Mexico. Revista Mexicana de Biodiversidad. 91;  e913338. DOI: 10.22201/ib.20078706e.2020.91.3338

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[Botany • 2020] Aristolochia yachangensis (Aristolochiaceae) • A New Species from Limestone Areas in Guangxi, China

February 13, 2021, 11:34 pm
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Aristolochia yachangensis B.G.Huang, Yan Liu & Y.S.Huang

in Luo, Ni, Jiang, ... et Huang, 2020.
雅长马兜铃  | DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.153.52796


Abstract
Aristolochia yachangensis B.G.Huang, Yan Liu & Y.S.Huang, a new species from limestone areas in Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically most similar to A. fangchi Y.C.Wu ex L.D.Chow & S.M.Hwang, A. petelotii O.C. Schmidt and A. championii Merr. & Chun in shape of leaf blade, anther, gynostemium and inflorescence on old woody stems. However, it can be easily distinguished from the latter by shape of inflorescence, length of upper and lower portions of perianth tube, colour of the limb and throat. A table and a key to distinguish the new species from other morphologically similar Aristolochia species are also provided.

Keywords: Aristolochia, limestone flora, new taxa, north-western Guangxi, taxonomy

 Figure 2. Aristolochia yachangensis B.G.Huang, Yan Liu & Y.S.Huang, sp. nov.
 A habitat B flowering branch C flowers (front view) D flower (lateral view) E flower bud F longitudinally dissected flower (showing the inside structure) G longitudinally dissected flower (dorsal view) H old phase of gynostemium (vertical view) I old phase of anthers and gynostemium (lateral view) J ovary K young capsule L mature capsule.
 Photographed by Shuwan Li.

Figure 2. Aristolochia yachangensis B.G.Huang, Yan Liu & Y.S.Huang, sp. nov.
A habit B flowering branch C flower (front view) D longitudinally dissected flower (showing the inside structure) E anthers and gynostemium (lateral view) F old phase of gynostemium (vertical view) G capsule.
Drawn by Wenhong Lin (IBK). 


Aristolochia yachangensis B.G.Huang, Yan Liu & Y.S.Huang, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Aristolochia yachangensis is morphologically similar to A. fangchi Y.C.Wu ex L.D.Chow & S.M.Hwang, A. petelotii O.C.Schmidt and A. championii Merr. & Chun, but can be distinguished from them by stems irregularly striate, sparsely yellowish-brown pubescent or glabrous; leaf blade 1.5–3 cm wide; cymes on old woody stems; basal portion of perianth tube 2–3 cm long, shorter than the upper; limb yellow, with dark purple mural–like stripes; throat yellow; capsule ellipsoid.

 Detailed morphological comparisons amongst the four species of A. yachangensis, A. championii, A. petelotii and A. fangchi are summarised in Table 1.


 Etymology: The specific epithet is derived from the type locality, Yachang Orchid National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China. The Chinese name is given as “雅长马兜铃”.



Ya Jin Luo, Shi Dong Ni, Qiang Jiang, Bo Gao Huang, Yan Liu and Yu Song Huang. 2020. Aristolochia yachangensis, A New Species of Aristolochiaceae from Limestone Areas in Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 153: 49-61. DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.153.52796

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[Ichthyology • 2021] Island Colonization by A ‘Rheophilic’ Fish: the Phylogeography of Garra ceylonensis (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka

February 13, 2021, 11:40 pm
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 Garra ceylonensis   

in Sudasinghe, Dahanukar, Raghavan, ... et Meegaskumbura, 2021.

 
Abstract
Despite exhibiting multiple morphological adaptations to living in swiftly flowing water (rheophily), Garra ceylonensis is one of the most widely distributed freshwater fish in Sri Lanka. It is thus an ideal organism to reconstruct the evolutionary history of a widespread, yet morphologically specialized, freshwater fish in a tropical-island setting. We analysed the phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships of G. ceylonensis based on two mitochondrial and one nuclear genes. G. ceylonensis is shown to be monophyletic, with a sister-group relationship to the Indian species Garra mullya. Our results suggest a single colonization of Sri Lanka by ancestral Garra, in the late Pliocene. This suggests that the Palk Isthmus, which was exposed for most of the Pleistocene, had a hydroclimate unsuited to the dispersal of fishes such as Garra. G. ceylonensis exhibits strong phylogeographic structure: six subclades are distributed as genetically distinct populations in clusters of contiguous river basins, albeit with two exceptions. Our data reveal one or more Pleistocene extirpation events, evidently driven by aridification, with relict populations subsequently re-colonizing the island. The phylogeographic structure of G. ceylonensis suggests inter-basin dispersal largely through headwater capture, likely facilitated by free-swimming post-larvae. The Peninsular-Indian species G. mullya comprises two genetically distinct parapatric clades, which may represent distinct species.

Keywords: biogeography, dispersal, freshwater fish, Labeoninae, phylogeny, Pleistocene, torrent fish


Garra ceylonensis Bleeker, 1863




Hiranya Sudasinghe, Neelesh Dahanukar, Rajeev Raghavan, Tharani Senavirathna, Dipeshwari J Shewale, Mandar S Paingankar, Anjalie Amarasinghe, Rohan Pethiyagoda, Lukas Rüber and Madhava Meegaskumbura. 2021. Island Colonization by A ‘Rheophilic’ Fish: the Phylogeography of Garra ceylonensis (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society. blaa221. DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blaa221

     

     

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[Cephalopoda • 2020] Octopus jeraldi • Octopods of Deep reefs off Curaçao, southern Caribbean including Description of One Newly Discovered Species

February 13, 2021, 11:42 pm
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Octopus jeraldi
 Pratt, Baldwin & Vecchione, 2020

 
Abstract 
Recent exploratory research on poorly studied deep reefs in the Caribbean Sea has yielded substantial new information about the diversity of deep-reef fishes and some invertebrates, but the diversity of deep-reef cephalopods has not been assessed. Using images, videos, and specimens collected with the aid of a manned submersible, as well as DNA sequences derived from the specimens, we surveyed the cephalopod diversity of the mesophotic and rariphotic reef communities in Curaçao, southern Caribbean. Among the 50 records comprising 15 specimens, 39 photos, and 15 videos (of which six specimens matched video records), we found Octopus hummelincki Adam, 1937, Pteroctopus cf. tetracirrhus Delle Chiaje, 1830, Scaeurgus unicirrhus Delle Chiaje, 1841, Paroctopus mercatoris Adam, 1937, and Lepidoctopus joaquini Haimovici and Sales, 2019. In addition, we found one group of octopods, with two specimens that did not correspond to any known species. We describe this as a new species. One specimen of Lepidoctopus joaquini was hectocotylized on two arms.

 
 Abigail Pratt, Carole Baldwin and Michael Vecchione. 2020. Octopods of Deep reefs off Curaçao, southern Caribbean including Description of One Newly Discovered Species. Bulletin of Marine Science. 96(2); 297-308. DOI: 10.5343/bms.2019.0040

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[Botany • 2020] Curcuma cinnabarina & C. eburnea (Curcuma subg. Ecomatae, Zingiberaceae) • Two New Species from Thailand

February 13, 2021, 11:47 pm
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ว่านเทพประสิทธิ์ | Curcuma eburnea Škorničk., Suksathan & Soonthornk.  & 
อุษา | Curcuma cinnabarina Škorničk. & Soonthornk.

in Leong-Škorničková, Soonthornkalump & Suksathan, 2020. 

Abstract 
Curcuma cinnabarina and C. eburnea (Curcuma subg. Ecomatae, Zingiberaceae), two new species from Thailand, are described and illustrated here. They are compared with the morphologically closest species Curcuma rubrobracteata and C. pierreana, respectively. Detailed descriptions, colour plates, and information on their distribution, ecology, phenology and uses are also provided. Preliminary IUCN conservation assessments of these species are proposed.

Keywords: Curcuma pierreana, Curcuma rubrobracteata, Curcuma subg. Ecomatae, Lampang province, Nong Bua Lam Phu province, Udon Thani province

FIG. 1. Curcuma cinnabarina Škorničk. & Soonthornk., sp. nov.
 A, Habit; B, base of the plant, with emerging inflorescence; C, entire plant; D and F, inflorescence; E, rhizome and root tubers.
From Soonthornkalump, S. Sutt-209. 
(Photographs: W. Thongbai and S. Soonthornkalump.)

Curcuma cinnabarina Škorničk. & Soonthornk., sp. nov. 

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from Latin cinnabarinus, referring to the dark red colour of the bracts of this species. 

Vernacular names and uses. Usa (ù-saa) (อุษา) (usa = dawn). The rhizomes are used in local medicine as an ingredient in balm, and plants are occasionally also sold as ornamentals. 



FIG. 3. Curcuma eburneaŠkorničk., Suksathan & Soonthornk., sp. nov.
A, Habit (inset: detail of ligule); B, base of the plant, with emerging inflorescence; C, flowers; D, inflorescence (from above); E, flower dissection (from left to right, top to bottom: floral tube in longitudinal section, two lateral staminodes and labellum, stamen, calyx, ovary with epigynous glands, dorsal corolla lobe, two lateral corolla lobes); F, stamen (front, side and back views).
All from Leong-Škorničková, J. GRC-179.
 (Photographs: J. Leong-Škorničková.)

FIG. 4. Curcuma eburnea Škorničk., Suksathan & Soonthornk., sp. nov.
 A, Habit (inset: detail of ligule); B, inflorescence; C, flower dissection (from left to right, top to bottom: floral tube in longitudinal section, two lateral staminodes and labellum, calyx, ovary with epigynous glands, dorsal corolla lobe, two lateral corolla lobes, stamen); D, root tuber and rhizome; E, base of pseudostems, with rhizome.
 A–C from Leong-Škorničková, J. GRC-193, D and E from Leong-Škorničková, J. GRC-179. 
(Photographs: J. Leong-Škorničková.)

Curcuma eburnea Škorničk., Suksathan & Soonthornk., sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet derives from Latin eburneus and refers to the ivory/creamwhite colour of the bracts of this species. 

Vernacular names and uses. In Lampang province, the plant is known as kai laen (ไข่แลน) (= monitor lizard eggs, referring to the colour of the bracts), and young inflorescences are eaten by the locals as a vegetable. According to Wannakrairoj (1996), the common name of this species in Thailand is thep prasit (theph pras̄ithṭhi) (ว่านเทพประสิทธิ์) (= plant created by an angel). Dried flowers are used in the composition of Buddhist amulets and usually soaked in sandalwood oil for the tattooing ritual. 
 

J. Leong-Škorničková, S. Soonthornkalump and P. Suksathan. 2020. Curcuma cinnabarina and C. eburnea (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae), Two New Species from Thailand. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 77(3): 391 - 402. DOI: 10.1017/S0960428620000049

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[Paleontology • 2021] Fluvionectes sloanae • A New Elasmosaurid (Sauropterygia: Plesiosauria) from the non-marine to paralic Dinosaur Park Formation of southern Alberta, Canada

February 14, 2021, 12:13 am
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Fluvionectes sloanae 
Campbell​, Mitchell, Ryan & Anderson, 2021


Abstract 
Elasmosaurid plesiosaurian remains have been documented from non-marine to paralic (fluvial to estuarine) sediments of the upper Campanian Dinosaur Park Formation (DPF) of southern Alberta since 1898. Despite this long collection history, this material has received relatively little research attention, largely due to the highly fragmentary nature of most recovered specimens. However, this assemblage is significant, as it constitutes a rare occurrence of plesiosaurian remains in a non-marine depositional environment. This study reports on a recently collected and prepared specimen, which represents the most complete elasmosaurid yet collected from the DPF. This specimen preserves the trunk region, the base of the neck and tail, a partial fore and hind limb, and tooth, and is sufficiently complete to be assigned as the holotype of a new genus and species. This new taxon is diagnosed by a distinctive character state combination including a boomerang-shaped clavicular arch with acute anterior process, convex anterolateral margin, deeply embayed posterior margin, and pronounced ventral keel, together with the presence of 22 dorsal vertebrae, and the anterior dorsal centra bearing a ventral notch. The DPF plesiosaurian fossils were recovered from both estuarine/bay and fluvial palaeochannel sediments. The holotype skeleton represents an osteologically mature individual with an estimated body length of around 5 m, although the largest referred DPF elasmosaurid might have been closer to 7 m, which is considerably larger than other plesiosaurians reported from non-marine deposits. This suggests small-body lengths relative to typical elasmosaurids from marine settings, but is consistent with other plesiosaurians recovered from non-marine sediments. The identification of a distinct elasmosaurid taxon in the DPF might be evidence of niche-partitioning among the predominantly oceanic members of the ubiquitous plesiosaurian clade.

Figure 1: Geographic locality and stratigraphic position of specimens of Fluvionectes sloanae, gen. et sp. nov.
 Holotype TMP 2009.037.0068/1990.046.0001/.0002 (1) and referred specimens TMP 2009.037.0007 (2), TMP 1979.008.0006/.0184/.0185 (3), TMP 1998.068.0082 (4), TMP 1980.031.0001/.0002 (5), CMN 304–309/312–314 (6), CMN 9895 (7), and CMN 51829 (8). (A) Locality of specimens in southern Alberta (red stars); (B) position of holotype and TMP 2009.037.0007 within the Dinosaur Park Formation (DPF; stratigraphic section redrawn and modified from Eberth & Hamblin (1993: fig. a5); grain size abbreviations – cl = clay, si = silt, f = fine sand); (C) photograph of holotype quarry during excavation, with pedestaled specimen indicated by arrow (photograph courtesy of the TMP), and approximate area where TMP 2009.037.0007 was collected (arrow); and (D) generalized stratigraphic relationships of the DPF and Oldman Formation between DPP and Onefour, Alberta, their depositional environments, and stratigraphic positions of specimens (modified from Eberth & Hamblin (1993: fig. 19a) and Eberth (2005: fig. 3.1)). Note that the holotype and TMP 2009.037.0007 were collected from an estuarine environment, whereas TMP 1979.008.0006/.0184/.0185, TMP 1998.068.0082, and TMP 1980.031.0001/.0002 were collected from fluvial palaeochannel deposits.

Systematic Palaeontology
Sauropterygia Owen, 1860
Plesiosauria De Blainville, 1835
Elasmosauridae Cope, 1869

Fluvionectes gen. nov.
 
Fluvionectes sloanae sp. nov.
 
Holotype: TMP 2009.037.0068/1990.046.0001/.0002, partial skeleton consisting of a tooth, posterior cervical vertebral series, the complete pectoral, dorsal, and sacral vertebral series, the anterior half of the caudal vertebral series, ribs, gastralia, partial pectoral and pelvic girdles, and a partial fore and hind limb.

Type locality and horizon: Sage Creek Provincial Grazing Reserve, near Onefour, Alberta. Precise locality data on file at the TMP. TMP 1990.046.0001, TMP 1990.046.0002, and TMP 2009.037.0068 all derive from a stratum immediately overlying the basalmost coal bed of the Lethbridge Coal Zone in the Dinosaur Park Formation (DPF), upper Campanian, Upper Cretaceous.

Etymology: The genus name is derived from “fluvius”, the Latin word for river, and “nectes”, the Latinized Greek word (nektes) for swimmer (gender; masculine). We are aware that the connecting vowel “o” is inappropriate, but this is a deliberate choice on our part as we prefer this spelling and pronunciation. This is not an inadvertent error and, therefore, does not require subsequent correction according to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature, 1999: art. 32.5). The species name honours Donna Sloan who discovered the holotype, and for her long service to palaeontology, both in the field and as the scientific illustrator at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology (gender; feminine).

Diagnosis: Elasmosaurid possessing a boomerang-shaped clavicular arch with an acute anterior process, convex anterolateral margin, posterior margin with a deep embayment on either side, and a pronounced ventral keel, 22 dorsal vertebrae, and anterior dorsal centra with a ventral notch. Other manifest character states include: posterior cervical vertebra with high dorsoventral aspect; three pectoral vertebrae; five sacral vertebrae; scapula with an elongate dorsal ramus; coracoid with an open (non-enclosed) cordiform intercoracoid fenestra; pubis with an anterolateral embayment; and a postaxial supernumerary epipodial facet on the humerus.


Figure 2: Quarry map and reconstruction of holotype of Fluvionectes sloanae, gen. et sp. nov.
 Map (A) is of jacketed specimen and is upside down in relation to how the specimen was found in the field. Rose diagram of elongate skeletal elements (n = 50) shown in bottom left. Grey = gastroliths, “t” = turtle shell fragments, white = unidentifiable elements. The elements had a non-significant mean resultant trend of 92.3°/272.3° (A); 95% confidence interval for mean = 347.6°–197.0°; circular variance = 0.473; Rayleigh Test–Z = 0.144, p = 0.866; Rao’s Spacing Test–U = 134.941, 0.50 > p > 0.10; Watson’s U2 Test–U2 = 0.053, p > 0.5; Kuiper’s Test–V = 1.073, p > 0.15. Dorsal view of specimen (B) and specimen with estimated body outline (C).

    

Figure 14: Life reconstruction of Fluvionectes sloanae, gen. et sp. nov.
 Artwork by Andrea Elena Noriega (andreaelena.com).


James A. Campbell​, Mark T. Mitchell, Michael J. Ryan and Jason S. Anderson. 2021. A New Elasmosaurid (Sauropterygia: Plesiosauria) from the non-marine to paralic Dinosaur Park Formation of southern Alberta, Canada. PeerJ. 9:e10720. DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10720

    
 
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[Crustacea • 2021] Floresorchestia mkomani • Two Species of Talitridae (Amphipoda) from Kenya

February 14, 2021, 6:42 pm
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Floresorchestia mkomani Bichang’a & Hou

in Bichang'a, Kioko, ... et Hou, 2021.

Abstract
Two species of the family Talitridae Rafinesque, 1815 are described from English Point Beach, Mkomani, Mombasa, Kenya. One new species Floresorchestia mkomani Bichang’a & Hou, sp. nov. is reported and Gazia gazi Lowry & Springthorpe, 2019 is redescribed. The new species is characterized by the five dentate lacinia mobilis on the left mandible in male and only four in female, pereopod IV dactylus thickened proximally and having a small protrusion towards the mid of its posterior margin, a sexually dimorphic pereopod VII, and the presence of vertical slits just above the ventral margin of epimera II and III. Detailed morphological characteristics, as well as comparisons with closely related species are provided. To ascertain the species delimitation, molecular evidence is availed in this paper. Type material is deposited in National Museums of Kenya (NMK).

Keywords: Crustacea, Taxonomy, new species, new record, COI gene


  Floresorchestia mkomani Bichang’a & Hou, sp. nov.


Joshua Sese Bichang'a, Esther N. Kioko, Hongguang Liu, Shuqiang Li and Zhonge Hou. 2021. Two Species of Talitridae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from Kenya. Zootaxa. 4927(3); 331–358. DOI:  10.11646/zootaxa.4927.3.2

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[Crustacea • 2021] Panamapisa guaymii • A New Genus and Species of Amphipod (Amphipoda: Eriopisidae) from Bocas del Toro, Panama, the First Record of the Family Eriopisidae from Central America

February 14, 2021, 6:57 pm
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Panamapisa guaymii
 Alves, Lowry, Neves & Johnsson, 2021


Abstract
Eriopisidae is a widespread amphipod family, whose members have subcylindrical bodies, often do not have eyes, showing elongate third uropods in which the endopod is reduced and the exopod can become very long. This is the first record of Eriopisidae from Central America. Here, we describe the new genus and species Panamapisa guaymii gen. nov., sp. nov. from Bocas del Toro, Panama. The taxon differs from other members of the family in having a greatly enlarged merus on gnathopod 1, marginal setae on the dactyls of pereopod 5 to 7 and a third uropod nearly as long as the body.

Keywords: Crustacea, Hadzioidea, Panama, Atlantic Ocean

Panamapisa guaymii sp. nov. Holotype, male, 11 mm, UFBA 3646.
Bocas del Toro, Panama.  


Jessika Alves, James K. Lowry, Elizabeth G. Neves and Rodrigo Johnsson. 2021. A New Genus and Species, Panamapisa guaymii gen. nov. sp. nov., the First Record of the Family Eriopisidae Lowry & Myers, 2013 from Central America. Zootaxa. 4927(2); 273–281. DOI:  10.11646/zootaxa.4927.2.7

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[Ichthyology • 2020] Gymnothorax aurocephalus • A New White-spotted Moray Eel (Anguilliformes: Muraenidae: Muraeninae) from Andaman Sea, India

February 14, 2021, 8:12 pm
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Gymnothorax aurocephalus Nashad, Mohapatra, Varghese & Bineesh 

in Nashad, Mohapatra, Varghese, Ramalingam, Bineesh & Mohanty, 2020. 

Abstract
Gymnothorax aurocephalus sp. nov. is described herein based on 4 specimens. Three were collected from off Swaraj Dweep Island of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (A&N Islands) from a depth of 125–130 m and one specimen off Interview Island, A&N Islands at a depth of 90 m. This new species is distinguishable from its congeners by the following combination of characters: chocolate brown color overlain with small irregular white spots, golden skin shadings close to rictus; anus slightly before midbody; pointed and serrated jaw teeth; uniserial teeth in jaws and vomer; vertebral formula 7/61/148–149. The species is compared to all its congeners with white spots.

Keywords: Taxonomy, Anguilliformes, new species, Andaman Islands, Pisces


FIGURE 3. Gymnothorax aurocephalus sp. nov., holotype (EBRC/ZSI/11800; 723 mm TL).
A. Photograph of fresh specimen; B. Formalin-preserved specimen.


Gymnothorax aurocephalus Nashad, Mohapatra, Varghese & Bineesh sp. nov.
Common name: Goldenhead moray

Distribution. The specimen is presently known only from the holotype and three paratypes from Swaraj Dweep Island and Interview Island, Andaman Sea, India from a depth of 90–130 m depth.

Etymology. Gymnothorax aurocephalus is named for the golden-colored head of the species.


M. Nashad, Anil Mohapatra, Sijo P. Varghese, L. Ramalingam, Bineesh K. K. and Swarup Ranjan Mohanty. 2020. A New White-spotted Moray Eel, Gymnothorax aurocephalus sp. nov. (Muraenidae: Muraeninae) from Andaman Sea, India. Zootaxa. 4877(2); 361–372. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4877.2.8
  twitter.com/Bineesh73371715/status/1326170937012547584


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[Botany • 2021] Lepanthes marielana (Orchidaceae, Pleurothallidinae) • A New Species from the eastern Andes in Colombia

February 14, 2021, 11:59 pm
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Lepanthes marielana  

in Morales, Vieira-Uribe & Moreno, 2021. 

Abstract
Lepanthes marielana, a new orchid species of the eastern Andes of Colombia, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to Lepanthes clausa, also from the eastern Andes, but it can be distinguished by the echinate floral bracts, the light yellow with a central claret blotch flowers, the blades of the lip subfalcate with the apices surrounding the apex of the column and by the lip appendix subtriangular to oblong. Taxonomic and ecological notes are given.

Keywords: Colombia, eastern Andes, endemism, Lepanthes clausa, taxonomy


Lepanthes marielana


Nicolás Gutiérrez Morales, Sebastian Vieira-Uribe and Juan Sebastian Moreno. 2021. Lepanthes marielana (Orchidaceae, Pleurothallidinae), A New Species from the eastern Andes in Colombia. Phytotaxa. 484(1); 113–120. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.484.1.5

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